Student Rentals: the prep work matters

Proper set up is the hidden factor of you or your child learning violin. Once you figure out the size and teacher that fit you right along with a practice plan, the set up of your instrument silently influences your learning process. You shouldn't have to fight the instrument to get the sound out, even after getting over the "beginner squeaks". Strings should be able to stay in tune the entire lesson and practice session without the pegs slipping from tension. Upper String Shop understand the importance of beginners being given proper tools to begin their craft. 

Beginners spend most of their energy developing their technique and coordination. Fighting strings that are too high off the fingerboard and dragging dull, unresponsive notes out of the instrument takes their attention away from learning. The set up should benefit and serve the player, not threaten to hold them back. 

Your string rental should be comfortable and responsive. A clear voice in a student's rented violin moves them towards learning listening skills faster. If they are waiting to hear the note ring out from the violin, they are slowly falling behind the rest of the orchestra. Hands unfamiliar to violins and violas tire faster while wrapped around a thick neck with an unaligned fingerboard. 

Upper String Shop carves the bridge feet to the fit the instrument’s top. Direct, consistent contact between the bridge feet and top plate (the top part of the instrument) provides a stable connection for the string’s sound waves to transfer to the rest of the violin. Additionally, when the feet are fitted to the top plate properly, the chances of it slipping around or falling down are reduced. The rounded upper part of the bridge determines how high the strings are off the fingerboard. Measurements that are too high creates an unwanted finger exercise while too low begins to buzz. 

Hiding inside of the instrument, right behind one of the feet, is the sound post. This little piece of wood is also carved to fit flushed against the top and back plate. Where the sound post is positioned is important as it spreads the frequencies to the back plate. Common misconceptions of string instruments is that these two pieces, the bridge and sound post, are glued in place. Tension is what allows them to persist against falling or moving, which makes the fit of them even more important. 

The smallest details of your rental can hold you back from becoming the player you want to be. Allow Upper String Shop to take care of the set up worries while you craft the perfect practice routine. Professional grade set ups performed on student rentals is what your learner deserves. Limited knowledge and technique of the violin, viola, cello, or bass should not keep you from access to set ups given the same care and attention as professionals.