Books › Famous violinists and fine violins : historical notes, anecdotes, and reminiscences, 1896 › scan 242
Scan 242
Famous violinists and fine violins : historical notes, anecdotes, and reminiscences, 1896
12 lines. Read by computer on 3 September 2026. Printed page 222. See the scan on archive.org.
1down. As soon as it is fixed in its proper position, the strings are tightened a little, and the bridge properly adjusted; then, after a little time has elapsed, the strings are gradually raised to concert pitch.¹
3I have italicised the words "its proper position," for upon this depends to a very great extent the quality of tone that the violin will produce.
5The greatest violinists and the greatest instrument makers have had their utmost ingenuity turned to this tiny piece of wood, and many a violin is "made or marred" according to the attention which has been bestowed upon it.
7The violinist and composer, Louis Spohr, in his well-known "Violin School," devotes some important remarks to the sound-post; and almost all writers who have treated of stringed instruments played with a bow, have duly appreciated the importance of this little bit of wood. Still, few persons appear to be aware how very much depends upon it, and the instructions that have been given hitherto regarding it are not altogether satisfactory. I have therefore thought it would prove interesting and profitable to give the results of my own experience on this subject, to which for many years past I have devoted a great deal of attention.
9If any one would like to prove how much is due to this little cylinder of solid wood, let him take it
11¹ The pitch of the Royal Italian Opera, not "Philharmonic pitch."
The computer misreads some letters and numbers. Where a name matters to you, read the scan.