3 Important Tips for Violin, Viola, and Cello Maintenance this Winter

Have a luthier check your instrument

1. Check the bridge, pegs, and soundpost
Because of the fluctuating dry heat and cold temperatures, many players spend a lot of time tuning their instrument.  The constant tightening and loosening of tension can shift the bridge and potentially warp it.  The pegs also tend to shrink over time, which can lead to slipping.  Bring your instrument to Stamell Stringed Instruments for a free check-up and have us adjust it for you.  Call ahead if possible - (800) 766 0936.

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2. Get your violin, viola, cello, or bow re-haired
Depending on how much you play, it’s a good idea to get your bow re-haired at least once a year.  Hair breaks and stretches over time and eventually will stop engaging the string; this could potentially damage your bow.  New hair can also improve the playability and sound of your instrument.  Stamell Stringed Instrument's bow expert, Roger Treat, can repair or rehair your violin, viola, cello, or bass bow at our Amherst location on Thursdays.  It's always best to call ahead to make sure there is availability - (800) 766 0936.

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3. Clean the violin, viola, or cello
From time to time you should wipe down the strings and instrument of excess rosin with a microfiber cleaning cloth.  Excessive build-up can bond to the varnish and potentially damage the instrument and affect the sound quality.  For instruments with excessive build-up, a good polishing will do the trick. The luthiers at Stamell Stringed Instruments will be able to safely remove rosin, oil, dirt, and dust and bring a shine to your instrument.  We also sell Nikco polish and polishing cloths, for those who would like to polish their instruments themselves (although it is wise to check with your luthier first). 

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