CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD

STRING INSTRUMENT

The following information is intended to help you select an instrument that will be suitable for use in orchestra class.  A properly adjusted instrument is a joy to play and will assist you in your musical development.  It is very important that the instrument you use meet these criteria.  If it does not, you will be given a list of the instruments problems and asked to have them corrected or requested to get another instrument.  Realize that it will be in your best interest to remedy the problem(s) as soon as possible.  If you have questions or concerns, please contact us at rharris@lwsd.org or JAMiller@lwsd.org .

All instruments should be of the correct size for the student and have the following:

            *Ebony pegs, fingerboard, tailpiece

            *New set of strings:

                        +Violin and viola: Thomastik “Dominant” are the best

                        +Cello:  Prim 

                        +Bass:  Super Sensitive  

            *Fingerboard planed and finished for correct curvature

       *Pegs that fit the hole tightly and operate smoothly (friction pegs are best) for all

            instruments except Bass.  Avoid any type of mechanical peg!)

            *Nut adjusted for proper height, grooves evenly spaced and lubricated

            *Sound post adjusted for proper fit and best sound

            *Bridge cut to match the fingerboard curvature and for proper string height

            *Fine Tuners on all strings attached on tailpiece (except for Bass)

            *Violins and violas should have a comfortable chinrest securely attached

            *Cellos should have a long end pin (18” to 24”) that moves easily

                        and tightens securely.

            *Case in good working order:

                        +All locks and/or zippers function properly

                        +No holes or cracks that will allow water to enter

                        +Fits the instrument properly (instrument does not rattle inside)

*Bow, properly curved (Glasser OK) with horsehair (do not get synthetic hair!).           

            +Screw on the bow functions

*Music stands are optional, but a very good thing for home practice.

*When you come to school, you should have a polishing rag, rosin, and a pencil in your case.

Feel free to show this page to anyone trying to sell or rent you an instrument.  Tell them that the teacher will inspect the instrument.  If it does not meet the needs of the student, you will return it for one that does or to get a refund.  If this is not suitable to the dealer (most will willingly agree to this) then we advise you to not get the instrument!

Good luck!           Mrs. Rachel Harris       Mrs. Janet Miller        Orchestra directors