Your guide to violin strings

It is a little known fact that to really have a great sounding violin, strings choice is essential. The experienced violinist can and will select a specific set of strings to enhance their playing, as different strings create different sounds when used in conjunction with a bow. In this article we'll delve into string selection and help you find out whats best for your desired tone.

There are some "old standbys" that you should know before purchasing. Here they are, along with some characteristics of each.

Gut strings - Somewhat grotesque, these are old fashioned strings crafted from the insides of wildlife. Gut strings were of the first type available and are often played by violinsts specializing in classical or period music. A popular gut string is the pirastro eudoxa. It's popular for a reason folks, and we highly recommend this fine specimen of a gut string.

Synthetic Strings - Synthetic cores are known for being great at resonance and have a very long lifespan. Probably the best choice in the vast availability of synthetics would be thomastik dominant strings, or the similarly popular pirastro evah pirazzi strings Both Thomastik and Pirastro are heavy hitters in the violin industry and have built up great reputations.

Steel core strings - These strings have the reputation of being strings for students. This is somewhat of an unfortunately and unkind, not to mention incorrect assumption as many skilled violin players prefer steel core, and probably as many as prefer synthetic or gut. The standard in steel core strings would have to be the super sensitive red label strings. These have been used by student violinists for ages and are popular amongst teachers for a reason.

When looking to purchase strings you should focus on finding a trusted retailer with value added services. Compare not only pricing but you should also compare the extras the store offers, whether it be free shipping, a discount percentage off of your next order or something similar. Look to a violin forum with other players and see what stores they routinely buy from and can recommend to you.

To end, go out and talk to other people in the violin community and see what they recommend and can say about the individual string tonal qualities and be aware of these at your next purchase.