Christiansgade 25, 2. th
8000 Århus C, Denmark
Tel: (+45) 86 20 22 11
Fax: (+45) 86 18 19 79
 
 
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About Jens Stenz
About The Workshop
About The Shop
Newmaking of instruments
Advise about insurance
Collection of Danish made instruments
Address, opening hours and maps
 
 

Instrument Care

To make sure that your instrument will keep its value and playing qualities, it is of great importance that you take good care of it. One day it will show future generations how good or bad you have treated it!

Following is some advice:

1: Always consult a professionally trained violinmaker when your instrument needs repair and attendance. Wrong treatment by unskilled craftsmen can cause severe dammage to your instrument.

2: Keep the instrument clean. Wipe off rosin-dust after each performance. Never use aggressive cleaning fluids or abrasive agents. Each instrument is special and requires special care. A skilled and proffessionally trained violinmaker will gladly give you advice as to how your instrument needs to be treated.

3: Always store your instrument and bow in a solid case when not in use. Many accidents can be avoided this way.

4: Always use fresh strings. The sound quality of your instrument is less satisfying when playing on old worn out strings. Ask your violinmaker for advice regarding different types of strings that could suit your instrument.

5: Have your bow rehaired when neccessary. Use good quality rosin, but do not use too much. Keep the bow stick clean from rosin-dust using a soft cloth. Your violinmaker will help you choose the correct type of rosin.

6: Each stringed instrument requires a correct bridge and soundpost set up. The fingerboard should have the correct curve and hollowing for the strings to play freely without causing a buzz. Pegs should fit perfectly and run smoothly. Fitting of bridge, soundpost and trimming of fingerboard and pegs is a job for the skilled violinmaker only.

7: Instruments are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. The sound quality of your instrument will usually change when the climate changes. Be careful not to store the instrument in exstreme dry or humid conditions.

8: To prevent damage to your instrument, it is of advice that you consult your violinmaker at least once a year. When visiting your violinmaker it will quickly be determined if your instrument needs repair.