Tuning
For many new players who are just starting their musical journey (or parents of younger musicians!), tuning your new violin or cello can be a bewildering process.
“Is the instrument in tune?” “I’m worried I’m going to break it!” “Why is this string loose?” — these are frequent (and expected) questions that get asked.
We’ve put together a series of short videos to explain the process of tuning. These will hopefully help answer some questions that tend to come up when people get their first violin or cello.
Of course, if you have questions or concerns about your instrument, please feel free to contact us, and we’ll be happy to help!
Part One: Is It In Tune?
Liz Perry walks you through tuning your instrument with the help of free tuning apps. What is ‘in tune’? To what pitches should you be tuning your strings?
Part Two: How To Tune, Using Fine Tuners & Pegs
What direction do I turn the pegs? Why are there two sets of tuning options on my instrument, and which one should I use? How much pressure do I apply when turning the pegs, and how much should I turn them, anyway?
Part Three: Troubleshooting
Common problems: my bridge isn’t standing straight! My fine tuners aren’t working! This peg won’t keep its string in tune!
Part Four: Changing A String
What to do when you need to change a string. Use of graphite in bridge and nut notches. How to wind the string on the peg.