Saturday, July 30, 2016 by Sarah Sponseller | Uncategorized

When do you need new strings?

Well, the most obvious answer is when a string breaks. 

In this case, the best thing to do is to go get a replacement string at a music store. The new string doesn't necessarily need to be the same brand as the string that broke, but it is wise not to buy a string that looks super cheap. If you rented your violin, you most likely have "Dominant" strings on your violin, so it would be safe to buy this kind of string. Also, when buying a new string, pay attention to the SIZE. (Obviously, if you have a 1/2 size violin, you're going to want a 1/2 size string!)

For those of you who are not at a full size violin yet, I don't think you need to replace your strings. Chances are, you'll be moving up in size by the time you need new strings anyway.

HOWEVER, for those of you have a full size, it's important for the upkeep of your violin to replace your strings often.

Now, what do I mean by often? That depends on how much you play your violin. If you are in orchestra in school, taking lessons, and consistent about practicing, it's a good idea to replace your strings every 1-2 years. If you don't play quite as much, it's probably okay to replace them every 2-3 years.

Following are a few ideas of strings I like (from lowest price to highest). If you follow the links, they will take you to Amazon:

D'Addario Prelude strings are currently $16.39 on Amazon for a full size set. They are a cheaper set, but still a good set with a nice bright sound.

Thomastik-Infeld Vision strings are currently $45.12 on Amazon for a full size set. I have these on my own violin at the moment, and they respond just how I want them to. They have a bright and warm sound.

Thomastik Dominant strings are currently $49.99 on Amazon for a full size set. I have not used these strings in quite a while, but they are well loved in the violin community.

Thomastik-Infeld Blue strings are currently $60.00 on Amazon for a full size set. I have used these before, and they have a darker and deeper sound, which I really liked.

Thomastik-Infeld Red strings are currently $64.09 on Amazon for a full size set. I have used these before as well, and they have a much lighter and brighter sound than the Infeld Blue strings.

Pirastro Evah Pirazzi strings are currently $79.96 on Amazon for a full size set. I used these all through high school. My teacher preferred these kind of strings. They have an absolutely gorgeous sound. I don't currently use these because they are on the expensive side.

Obligato strings are currently $89.82 on Amazon for a full size set. I put these strings on in preparation for my senior recital. These kind of strings are my college violin teacher's favorite. They have an incredible sound. Most likely best for super serious players. 

A couple notes about E-strings: Sometimes E strings will be advertised as "Gold-Plated." I used these and never had a problem. Also, there are two types of ends on E-strings: "ball-end", and "loop-end". If you have a standard tailpieces, you need the "ball-end" string (which is more common.) Double check that you have the right end before you purchase your strings!

And of course, if you get new strings and don't know what to do next, bring them to your lessons and we'll get them on!