How to Bridge a Violin

The bridge supports the strings and transmits sound to the sound box.

In the opinion of at least one violin retailer, the bridge of a violin is its most significant exterior part. When you play the violin, the bridge picks up the vibrations of the strings and transfers them to the body of the instrument, according to James Beament, Life Fellow, Queens' College, Cambridge. The bridge is, therefore, of vital importance to the tone of the violin and needs to fit correctly. However, you don't glue the bridge to the violin; the tension of the strings holds it in place.

Instructions

1. Sit the two feet of the bridge so they are in line with the two small nicks on the inside of the "F" holes in the body of the instrument.

2. Look at your instrument from the side. Ensure there is a 90-degree angle between the rear of the bridge and the belly of the instrument.

3. Correct the bridge angle by first gripping the bridge to hold its feet securely in place.

4. Move the top of the bridge forward or backward slightly until you achieve a 90-degree angle.

References

• West Country Violins: Violin Care
• "The Violin Explained: Components, Mechanism, and Sound"; James Beament; 1997