Can The Latest Science Really Explain the Famous Cremona Sound?

STOKE NEWINGTON, U.K. - June 3, 2015 - PRLog -- Recent scientific research into which features boost the acoustic power of Cremonese era violins may not fully explain all of the sources of the distinctive sound but offers a useful insight and confirmation to violin makers as to which elements of these violins have evolved to refine the much loved sound.

The latest published U.S. research by fluid dynamicists at MIT and violinmakers at North Bennet Street School in Boston has analysed the measurements of hundreds of Cremonese era violins in order discover the sources of the instruments’ acoustic power. http://newsoffice.mit.edu/2015/violin-acoustic-power-0210

Instruments made in Cremona in the 17th and 18th centuries by the Amati, Stradivari, and Guarneri makers are among the most highly prized and valued today for their unique sound qualities and history, and as such have been the subjects of many studies to uncover the sources of the “Cremona Sound”.

This latest research used Cremonese-era violins from museums, collector databases, books, and also used instrument X-ray and CAT scans to compare instrument features and to compare instrument resonances.

The research found that more elongated f-holes associated with later period instruments produce more of a powerful sound and are more power-efficient, and a thicker back plate may also boost a violin’s sound.

The evolution of Cremonese violin design through Amati, Stradivari, and then to Guarneri showed a move towards thicker back plates and longer f-holes over time, and this new research also appeared to show that many elements of this evolution are likely to have been by accident or “natural mutation” rather than by deliberate design.

Gary Bridgewood of Stoke Newington based dealers, repairers and restorers of fine stringed instruments Bridgewood and Neitzert says:

“It’s always interesting to get the scientific angle on how these beautiful instruments create their unique sounds. Of course the researchers in this case would know that there are many different variables involved in generating acoustic power and tone but this research has highlighted how the evolution of these fine instruments has contributed to the Cremona sound that is enjoyed and appreciated by so many.”

Gary’s experience as a violin maker has helped him to appreciate the work of the Cremonese and many other fine stringed instrument makers.

“Whether by accident, design or a bit of both what the Cremonese violin makers achieved has stood the test of time. As a violin maker working with an expert team of experienced restorers here at Bridgewood and Neitzert the team and I are lucky enough to have first-hand experience of many Cremonese and other fine instruments, and you have to admire the skill and craftsmanship of these makers. We are able to carry out quality repair and restoration work to keep fine stringed instruments of all kinds in the condition that their makers would approve of, and that will keep them sounding, looking, and playing at their best for many years to come.”

For more information call Bridgewood and Neitzert on 020 7249 9398, visit the website http://www.vivaceviolin.com or contact Bridgewood and Neitzert online here (http://www.vivaceviolin.com/sitepage/ContactPage.html).