How to Put on New Violin Strings

The violin is a beautiful string instrument with a huge range of expression. As one of the more delicate instruments, violin strings are sometimes a bit temperamental, especially for young players and beginners. However, replacing a violin string doesn't have to mean a trip to the repair shop. Follow some simple steps to help you put on new violin strings from the comfort of your own home .

Instructions

1. Determine if a new string is necessary. Notice whether the violin seems to be playing oddly on certain notes, look at the string in question and notice whether if the wrapping has come off from around the string or if it is broken.

2. Look at what string it is that needs to be replaced. It will either be an C, G, D, A or E string. Visit your local music store or go online to purchase a string that goes in that place.

3. Pick your string on the basis of the sound quality you want, since different brands often produce a different sound. Some are brighter and richer than others. Ask the salesperson for more information.

4. Pull the peg of the string toward you and turn until the string is completely unwound from its peg. The hole that appears will be where the new string is installed. Unhook the old string from the tailpiece.

5. Take a soft lead pencil and stick it lightly into the hole that appeared near the peg. This lubricates the hole for the new string to be installed. Stick the end of the new string down the hole of the tailpiece. Wait for the string to catch, then partially wind it around the peg.

6. Wrap the string neatly around the peg until it is securely tightened. Push the string while you wrap it to ensure a tight installation; make sure the string is properly positioned over the groove in the bridge.

Tips & Warnings

• Loosen the strings around the 2 outer strings to install an outer string, since it will make it easier to install.

• Check to see if your instrument has a fine tuner as this is where the string will go. The string will most likely come out of the hole a few times before it catches successfully, so be patient.

• If the peg is not in place while you are tightening the string, it will simply come loose again. You must push the peg while tightening the string.

• Do not wrap the string haphazardly around the peg; it will cause damage to the string and the instrument will not play properly.

Resources

• Visit this great website for violin beginners.