Wednesday 27 April 2011

Finding The Best Quality Violin Luthier To Repair Your Instrument

By Joyce Tucker


When your violin needs repair, you want to find the best violin luthier available to fix it. This can be a frightening pursuit. With so many reports of less than honest repair shops, it is no wonder that many hesitate before having their treasured instrument fixed.

Knowing that the name of luthier comes with a long history of craftsmanship may ease your anxiety. These craftsmen first fixed lutes and then guitars. Eventually, they came to be known for making repairs to all stringed instruments.If someone carries this designation, then he or she has taken many years to achieve the skills necessary to fix stringed instruments. Most specialize in one or two these days.

Once established, these successful craftsmen often become recognized around the world for their skill. Some take on students or apprentices who study with them for years in order to also learn the craft. Tuition for students can range beyond ten thousand for first year studies. Apprentices must follow the guidance of the master builder for years.

Though many apprentices eventually settle in on a favorite instrument as their specialty, others continue on to learn how to build them from the bottom up. They must learn about fine woods in much the same way as a carpenter, except that woods are sought out for their resonant tones. Using past designs, students build new versions of historical pieces. They learn to listen for the best sounds they can create through thoughtful combinations of wood and construction.

The goal of each is to make the best repairs and build the best stringed instrument possible. Devoted to providing the richest sounds each piece can create, each craftsman is a slave to sound. Once the work is completed, the performing begins. Each item must be tested for musical sounds before leaving the shop.

Thanks to the Internet, comparing information about shops and violin makers is easier than it used to be. Information about top recommended repair people is available for violinists. The key is to discover is the expert in question deals with violins or strings such as guitars. Professionals and students alike may compare services from all over the world to discover what is available.

Documentation is the key to protection at any level of performance. Do keep photos and engravings in the wood of your own instruments. Some less than scrupulous repair people have been said to switch out labels. The labels can easily be counterfeited, so be vigilant about your documents. Top quality repairs come along with top quality references. The string world relies on word of mouth to find top quality.

Any top quality violin luthier will be concerned about fixing your instrument correctly. Because he or she will rely on lots of experience, many skills, and the finest musical judgment, do not expect quick repairs. Ask about time and expense involved before you let the instrument leave your hands. Do seek out the training and work experience of this person. Listen to violins currently in the shop, if you can. Beautiful tones and workmanship are on the top of your list when choosing the person who will do the work for you.

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