Page 7 - Info magazine Strings Class nr 1 january 2021

The wood that will eventually be used to make a violin is stored in a temperature and humi-
dity controlled room 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to preserve the moisture in the wood.
Top plate materials come from the resonant and
light, but hard, spruce tree, which is a type of pine
tree in the fir family. The spruce looks like the type
of fir trees that are used as Christmas trees. Strong
pieces in which the fibers run straight are selec-
ted, and a hatchet is used to split it so that the
fibers are not cut.
When cutting material from a tree, the outer portion
where the age rings are denser is cut thicker, which
forms a trapezoid as shown in the diagram. When
the left and right sides are put together, the outer
portion, which is the hardest portion be-
cause of the denser age rings, falls in the
middle, where the bridge is placed. This
also makes the grain of the wood sym-
metrical, which means the vibration qua-
lities are symmetrical as well.

Maple is used for the bottom and side
plates because of its beautiful wood
grain pattern. Practical considerations
are not the only concern. Craftsmanship
is also important.

The violin was created in northern Italy, and from its initial
emergence in the sixteenth century, the sound hole was in
the shape of an "f." Why was this shape chosen? There is as
yet no reasonable explanation. However, if the shape or size
is changed, it has a dramatic effect on the tone of the instru-
ment. In addition, the cross of the "f" shape marks the posi-
tion of the bridge and the sound post. The inside and outside
marks are at different locations, and the standard position is
exactly between these two marks. At the very least, this is an
argument against the use of the S-hole.