How to Match Violin Pegs With Their Right Holes

The pegs of the violin affect tension in the strings.

The peg box of a violin has four holes in which pegs are inserted. These pegs serve to aid in tuning the strings. Tightening the pegs will raise the pitch of a violin's strings. Loosening the pegs will lower the pitch. These pegs are essential for getting the strings to the required sound. Sometimes the pegs are intentionally turned to nonstandard tunings, such as in Gustav Mahler's symphonies, to create a strained sound.

Instructions

1. Identify the four holes in the peg box of the violin. These holes should be the same size and shape. If one hole is larger than any other, it is possible that you need to have your violin repaired.

2. Select a peg and begin to twist it into a hole on the peg box. It does not matter what peg you use for a particular hole. Each peg is designed in the same way and should fit in any hole.

3. Continue to install the remaining pegs in the additional holes.

Tips & Warnings

• If your pegs are slipping, it is probably not because of the pegs, but the strings. Follow the proper procedure for installing and tightening your strings.

References

• Violin Repair and Restoration

Resources

• How to Prevent Slipping Violin Pegs