Changing Strings Tips:
When replacing all of the strings, violinists generally
replace one string at a time. Do not remove all of the strings on
a violin at the same time, or the soundpost and/or fingerboard could
collapse.
Although the order you replace strings isn't critical,
many violinists start with the G string, and work their way up to
the E string.
If the string you’re installing has a fine
tuner, insert the ball or loop end of the string over the tuner cartridge
in the tailpiece, and pull the string toward the bridge.
If the string does not have a fine tuner, insert
the ball or knotted end of the string through the tailpiece string
hole, tug firmly to make sure the knot or ball is securely in the
slot, and pull the string toward the bridge. You may need to hold
the ball or knot in place with your finger while increasing the tension
of the string as you turn the peg.
Slightly pull out the peg the string will go in until
the peg hole is just inside of the pegbox. Thread the end of the string
through the peg hole (let the string slightly protrude), and evenly
begin winding it.
Push the peg in as you're turning the string to keep
the peg from slipping.
Generally for many violinist's, fine tuners are used
only on the E string, but beginning violinists often find it useful
to have tuners for each string.
When replacing all of the strings, violinists often
tune all of the strings to an approximate correct pitch, then do the
fine tuning to get each pitch precisely in tune.
Be aware that when you put on all new strings, it
will take more adjusting than usual to tune the violin.
If your pegs are slipping or are too tight to securely
adjust the strings, you may want to purchase peg compound (also called
“peg dope”), an inexpensive commercial product.
If you don’t have peg compound and need a temporary
quick fix for slipping or tight pegs, you may want to try tips some
violin teachers use: for sticking pegs, pull the peg partially out,
and rub pencil graphite on the sticking part of the peg. For loose
pegs, pull the peg partially out, and rub birthday candle wax on the
peg to help it stick (some teachers recommend chalk to help pegs stick,
but it's abrasive).
Many violinists find it helpful to have extra set
of violin strings on hand in case a string breaks