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Stringed Instrument 10 Point Inspection

All of the Violin Gallery instruments are made of the finest and most high-quality material specifically for stringed instruments. However, there are many things that can go wrong when making an instrument.  To ensure you have the best quality The Violin Gallery has every instrument go through a 10 Point Inspection. This makes sure all instruments are perfect in their condition, playability, and appearance. We look for physical imperfections, structural anomalies that may affect the tonal quality of your performance, and the overall functionality of your instrument from the tailpiece to the scroll.  Our inspection means there are no surprises.  You get a quality instrument, or we make it right.

 The following are the parts of the violin that are inspected:

  1.       Pegs
  2.       Strings
  3.       Fingerboard
  4.       Bridge
  5.       Tailpiece
  6.       End Button
  7.       Chin Rest
  8.       Sound Post
  9.       Varnish
  10.       Instrument Body

Pegs

The pegs are used to tune the violin so naturally, they are a critical part of the violin and our inspection. Each peg should run completely through the peg box and extend slightly out the other side. Running clockwise from the bottom-left or G string peg, the next peg is the D string, the top-right is the A string, and the bottom-right is the E string. The traditional material used for pegs is ebony, rosewood, or boxwood.  Though pegs are made of a hard wood, each is inspected to ensure they are properly tapered, that they turn well without sticking, and that they are not chipped or cracked. If needed, peg compound is applied to sticky pegs. Chipped or cracked pegs are replaced.

Strings

The violin strings are inserted through the pegs and stretched across the violin to the tailpiece, being held above the fingerboard by the bridge. The strings are inspected for any defects such as fraying and measured for their proper distance from the fingerboard.

Fingerboard

The fingerboard is the board you put your fingers on. Surprise. If the board is not shaped properly, is too close or too far from the strings, or too short, the violin can be difficult or impossible to play properly. Ebony is used, not because of the color or because it is beautiful, but because it is hard, solid, and strong. Even though it is an ideal wood, we inspect each instrument to ensure that it is in the proper shape with the proper scoop so the strings don’t buzz when depressed. It is also checked for chips, scratches, or cracks. If the strings are too close, we check the structural qualities of the fingerboard and the height of the bridge to pinpoint where the problem is.

Bridge

The violin bridge supports the strings and transmits the vibrations of the strings from the top to the soundpost, which transfers the sound to the back plate. We inspect each bridge to ensure that the saddle is in the proper shape and supporting the strings at the proper distance from the fingerboard. The feet are inspected to ensure they are set on the face of the violin without gaps and that the positioning of the bridge is accurate.

Tailpiece

The tailpiece is what anchors strings to the body of the violin so it needs to be made of strong materials that will stand up to the pressures placed on it. It is inspected for visual flaws or defects as well as the fine-tuners and tailgut. The tailgut and thread are inspected to ensure that it will not slip when tension is placed on the strings as the instrument is tuned. Lastly, we ensure that it is set as close to the saddle as possible without making contact.

End Button

The end button or button is a critical anchor-point of the violin.  It is inspected for any damage and cracking and checked to make sure it is not out too far and seated properly.

Chin Rest

The chin rest is inspected for structural problems. We ensure that it too is seated properly and is snug.

Varnish

The varnish should be even and attractive but the primary purpose of the varnish is to protect it from the elements. We inspect the body of the violin for any flaws, chips, or discoloration. If there are any hairline cracks or bubbling, we make necessary repairs before it is approved for play.

Instrument Body

Similar to all other inspections, the violin body is checked for any cracks, chips, or physical abnormalities.  If there is any structural damage such as bowing of the ribbing or hairline cracks, the violin is repaired and recertified. All instruments require maintenance over time and frequent maintenance and cleaning will ensure the longevity of your instrument and keep it beautiful in both appearance and the tonal qualities it can produce.

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Author

  • Chris Hobson

    Chris has been playing for violin for over 30 years, has taught violin for over a decade, and has been doing restorations and instrument sales since 2011. He is passionate about music and educating his students and their parents about getting the most out of their personal musical journey. Chris grew up in St. George, Utah and after serving in the military and being away for over 20 years, he is happy to call St. George home again. Chris married his military sweetheart, Jackie and together they have five children. Chris and Jackie are the founders of the Violin Gallery.

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