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Showing results for tags 'humidity cycling'.
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I would like to ask what is happening, scientifically, when "playing in" a violin. I have recently been given an old violin which had sat in a drawer for over 20 years, unplayed. Initially it sounded nasal and tight. I have been gradually breaking it in using various techniques, as follows - 1. Extensive use of scales in double stops, emphasising 4ths, 5ths, 8-ves. 2. Use of thirds, sixths, tenths, to generate "Tartini tones", also using minor 2nd and major 7ths to induce vibrational "pulsing" 3. Single note chromatic scales, using slow bows, playing as close to the bridge as possible, with as much bow pressure as possible. 4. Normal playing of regular repertoire, hours daily. Since beginning this process a few days ago, I have noticed a distinct "opening up" of the sound. Several notes already "ring" better. This is anecdotal, however; I'm curious to know what is happening on a cellular level, and why. --Are there micro-stresses or fractures happening in the wood? Creep? Settling in under newly strung setup? --Are the vibrations generating heat within the wood cells resulting in change? --Is breath generating a sort of mini humidity cycling? Thanks for any insights.
