How to Change a Broken String on a Violin

When you are learning a new instrument, on your own or with a teacher, things are bound to get in the way, such as a broken string. Changing a string on a violin is a little different than other instruments such as a guitar, and require a bit more carefulness. Still, it is a task that all great musicians must perform.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Violin with strings that need replaced or changed
• New or replacment string

1. First, determine which string you broke. The order of strings from biggest to smallest is GDAE. Go ahead and take your replacement string out of the package.

2. Remove the old string. You may have to unwind the pegs at the top to fully remove it. Also, make sure the string isn't stuck in the fine tuners at the bottom.

3. Unwind your replacement string. With the end of the string in your hand that has the little ball at the bottom, place that end in the fine tuner slot, or if you don't have a fine tuner on that string, tie it around the hole once.

4. Stretch the string to the top of the violin. Thread the string through the hole in the peg and continue to wind it upwards until fully tightened. Then, tune the string.

5. If the string will not stay put as you tighten it, apply slight pressure on the peg inwards as you turn it. If that fails to keep the peg in place, your local music store will have a liquid that you apply to the peg that will hold it in place.

6. Some musicians recommend that you let the string relax overnight in it's stretched positions to help prevent the instrument from slipping out of tune. If you're a newbie, then go-ahead an play. Have fun!