Books › Violins and other stringed instruments : how to make them ; with numerous engravings and diagrams, 1906 › scan 141
Scan 141
Violins and other stringed instruments : how to make them ; with numerous engravings and diagrams, 1906
6 lines. Read by computer on 29 August 2026. Printed page 137. See the scan on archive.org.
1execution may readily be acquired, as all the notes are formed by the frets; while the bowing is done across the narrow end, which projects over the edge of the table for the purpose. A single leg, with a minute spike, is provided at about 2 in. from the tail-piece, while two others, somewhat higher, are placed one on each side of the wider part, as shown in Fig. 155. The tone of the bow zither is almost exactly the same as that of the violin, but is, unfortunately, rather thin and weak.
3The philomela, or zither-viola, has been invented for the reason just given. This instrument approaches very nearly to the violin in tone and volume, and may be regarded as the perfect form of the Streich zither. Although it differs very much in shape, and is played in a different manner, there is no easier instrument of the viol type. The neck differs from that of any other instrument, inasmuch as it is square and of equal thickness through its whole length. It may be slightly rounded on the fret-board, and the divisions of the latter are the same as on any other form of zither. At the back of the "nut," or thereabouts, is a short spiked leg, which rests upon the edge of the table in playing, while the broad tail-piece end is supported upon the lap of the player. A somewhat shorter bow than usual is employed; and, of course, the fingering is done with the thumb and first three fingers of the left hand. The latter is not curled round the neck as when holding the violin, but is held in a dropping position over the fret-board. The construction of the philomela offers no difficulties, as the back and belly may be left flat; though, if curved as in the case of the violin, the instrument is much more shapely. The making of the rib is really the only delicate matter in making a philomela. As to the size, the viola, or tenor violin, may be taken as about correct; but, of course, the neck is wider. Sound-posts are employed, as in the violin. Machine heads are usually affixed.
5A small and toy-like form of zither is known as the Prince of Wales' Harp (see Fig. 157). It is very easily
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