Study Uses Violin Vibrato To Help Reveal Location of Sound Resonance in Violins

STOKE NEWINGTON, U.K. - Dec. 11, 2015 - PRLog -- A study from the University of Michigan has shown that the location of body sound resonances for particular violins can be discovered by studying the sound waves when someone plays vibrato on the instrument

The study used a high-resolution time-frequency distribution tool to try and improve upon previous scientific methods of measuring vibrato.

The findings helped to discover more about where sound resonance comes from in the violin, and also established another method for distinguishing different instruments, and measuring their sound differences.

Sound Different With and Against the Grain

The study showed that the speed of sound travelling in the wood is not the same across the grain as with the grain and this can cause densely-spaced resonance that differs in different instruments because of the individuality of wood and how each instrument is made.

Many Recent Studies

This study adds to a growing body of scientific research on the source of the individuality of a violin’s tone and sound such as the results of a 7 year MIT study that highlighted the importance of the thickness of a violin’s back plate and the size of the ‘f’ holes on the front in generating the tone and power

A Violin Maker’s Opinion

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

“What this and other similar studies help to illustrate is the individuality of each instrument which is the result of the wood itself, the maker and their methods, and the age and history of each individual instrument.  Violins have evolved through a mixture of accident and design over many hundreds of years, and the input and innovations of craftsmen through the ages have left us with an instrument that is capable of sophistication, subtlety and expression.  As experienced violin makers, restorers and repairers we are in the fortunate position of being able to come into contact with many different fine stringed instruments, some very old and by well known makers.  We always take care to look carefully at the needs of each individual instrument, and give it the best possible care and attention.”

Established Violin Shop in Stoke Newington

Gary says “we have a violin shop and workshop staffed with skilled craftsmen, and we can help players of all levels with all aspects of their instruments.  We sell fine stringed instruments, strings, and a wide range of accessories.  The workshop can undertake the whole range of repairs and restorations on well as violins, violas, cellos, basses and bows, and on early and period instruments including lutes, viols and viola d’amores. All workmanship is guaranteed. We also provide help and expert advice.”

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).