1.

Know the different types of instruments:

Violin:

The violin, was developed in Italy around 1550.

Much like all of the stringed instruments, it
underwent minor changes throughout its
standardization. The highest note is well-
defined as A7 (tuned to A5). The lowest note is
usually G3, adding for about three octaves in
total range.

Viola:

The viola, often called the alto- tenor violin, was devolved by a member of the same family that assisted in
the upbringing of the violin: Andrea Amati. This big violin also has the same parts of the violin but
naturally has a much lower range: C3-E6.
Cello:
The main physical difference between violin, viola,
and the cello and double bass is that the
penultimate two have endpins to allow the
instrument to stand upright during performance.
Developed by members of both the Amati and
Rugeri family in the 1700s, the violoncello has a
range of C2-C6.

**it is important to know the physical parts of
stringed instruments to ensure successful learning!

Double Bass:

The double bass is thought to have the same internal construction of instruments of the violin family
rather than the viola da gamba family. It originally didnt have a lot of musicians intrigued until the
late 1800s, after Dragonettis standardization. The double bass can have as many as six strings, can be
up to 13-15 feet tall and has a range of C2-C5.


The Bow

No matter if youre learning to play a violin, viola, cello, or double bass, its important to know the
significance of the bow. The first use of the bow is known to date back to AD 800, China. The Chinese
erhu, similar to the violin, is known to be the first instrument to be played with a bow. Then, the hairs
were usually horse hairs, but modern day bow hairs are usually synthetic. Either way it is crucial to
make note that you should never touch the hairs of the bow and frequently use rosin, a beeswax
lubricant, to keep the hairs moisturized and frictioned!!

2. How to buy:

Shop local, shop new (the value increases over time!)
Compare instrument packages (bows, rosin, etc.) with buying the items separately
Bargain with your instrument dealer in order to get the best price possible

3. Caring for your instrument:

Always hold the instrument by the neck (don't touch strings)
Be sure to loosen your bow hair after youre finished playing
Wipe the rosin off of your strings after every single time you play
Keep the instrument in room temperature with a humidifier in order to keep the wood in a
prime setting
NEVER touch the bow hair!!
Re-hair your bow every six months

and HAPPY PLAYING!