Guide: String Instruments

Everything about violin, viola, cello, and double bass – from sizing charts for kids to assessing master-made instruments.

Cello

Cello Strings Explained: Gut, Synthetic, and Steel Core

How steel, synthetic and gut cello strings differ in tone, response, stability and lifespan, what they cost, and how to change them safely yourself.

Cello

Humidity and Cracks: Protecting a Cello Through Winter

Which humidity range suits a cello, how to measure and humidify, how to protect it in winter, summer and in the car, how to spot cracks and open seams, and what repairs roughly cost.

Cello

Checking the Endpin, Bridge and Sound Post Condition

The endpin, bridge and sound post decide how a cello sits, responds and stays stable. What you can check and adjust yourself, what belongs in the shop, and what it roughly costs.

Cello

Cello Sizes for Children and Adults Explained

How to find the right cello size from 1/10 to 4/4 using arm length and height, how to check fit, when to change sizes, and what renting, rent-to-own and buying cost in the US.

Violin

Buying a Used Violin: What to Check

A step-by-step guide to buying a used violin: condition check, test play, shop versus private seller, warning signs, repair and setup costs, and when an appraisal pays off.

Violin

4/4, 3/4, 1/2: Finding the Right Violin Size for a Child

Find the right violin size for a child: how to measure arm length, size chart from 1/32 to 4/4, signs of a wrong fit, when to size up, renting, buying used and matching bow and accessories.

Violin

Checking Bridge Position and the Sound Post

How to check the bridge and gently straighten it yourself, what the sound post does and why only a shop touches it, plus string height, pegs, chin and shoulder rest fit, humidity and shop costs.