Caring for your Violin
Purchasing an instrument is likened to the purchase of a car. It is an investment that would provide you with years of enjoyment. However, like a car, the violin requires care and maintenance. This guide will outline a few important things about violin care and maintenance.
General violin care
1. Always keep your violin dry by storing it in the case after you have finished. Violins should also be stored away from windows, moisture and excessive humidity.
2. Do not allow your violin to dry out or heat up excessively. You should store it away from any sunlight, heaters or fireplaces.
3. NEVER leave your violin in the car. The sun and heat can greatly damage your violin and the bow.
4. NEVER clean your violin with household cleaners or solvents. They are abrasive and will damage the finish of the violin. Proper cleaners for stringed instruments are available for purchase from music stores.
5. Remove dry rosin dust while it is still fresh as this reduces the need to clean your instrument. Rosin dust can be removed gently with a dry, soft cloth. Speak to the shop where you purchased your violin from if you are unsure.
6. By covering your violin with a cloth while in its case, you can protect your instrument from scratches and insulate it slightly. This cloth normally comes with the case.
7. To prevent dust, sunlight and accidents from happening, it is best to keep the violin in its case when it’s not being in use.
Bow
1. Try not to touch the hair on the bow with your fingers. The bow is made out of horse hair. Hence, the slightest amount of grease or dirt on it can greatly affect it’s performance.
2. Keep anything that is greasy away from your bow.
3. Always loosen your bow after each use.
4. Your bow should never get warm.
5. Never over-tighten your bow. You only need it to be finger tight.
Maintenance
1. Due to corrosion and winding damage, strings do wear out. The tone (volume and clarity) and it’s quality do get affected. It is advisable that you replace your strings every 6 to 12 months.
2. Do not attempt to repair your own violin. Any repairs that need to be carried out on your violin must be done by a professional.
