String Choice?
My violin is ~ 170 years old, Italian, and naturally mezzo piano. I’d like greater projection. I can lean into it well-enough w/ the bow, but I’d prefer to not have to as much. Sound-wise I’d describe the violin as very neutral, dry in a good way. It is neither very warm, nor very bright. I suppose I’d prefer brighter than warmer, but that is because I, perhaps wrongfully, associate warm with tending towards a bit unresponsive or muddy.Current strings: Dominant.
Any suggestions?
Evahs seem an obvious choice, as they're quite popular. I was considering about going green, and if I dislike them, golds.
Lasrsen Il Cannone seems like a good choice, too, but I hear less about these, so I am unsure.
The options are overwhelming, and am interested in what the community might suggest for this violin as described.
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Replies (8)
The idea that historical strings were lighter is demonstrably false.
"My violin is ~ 170 years old, Italian, and naturally mezzo piano." Your neighbors probably appreciate it! But if you want more oomph, as Cotton suggests, there are various adjustments. I'd recommend taking it to a violin craftsman ('luthier') in your area for a good overall checkup and adjustments. It shouldn't be too expensive unless (s)he discovers cracks or other issues requiring invasive repair.
The problem is that the people who make these recommendations cannot hear you instrument with its current strings; they can only rely on your description of the violin, its current sound with Dominants and what you are trying to achieve. Even if all of the people responding agreed on what you should try, there is no guarantee that their choice would sound good on your violin, even if it sounds good on theirs. What you need to do is go to your luthier. That person can hear your violin with the current strings and suggest some possibilities that might work for you. You can ask about the strings people have suggested, but there is really no substitute for asking someone with expertise who can actually hear you instrument with Dominants. Sorry to rain on the parade, and good luck!
When the salesperson said "I could play a concert on this" it made my day!
