Violin strings are tough and durable, but they do break. The first time a violin string breaks, it can be pretty disconcerting. But the experience of breaking strings is not uncommon for those who play the violin. In fact, many players will break more than one string over the course of their playing career.
It’s important to note that there are some things you can do to prevent your strings from breaking in the future and keep them healthy so they last longer before they eventually need to be replaced.
Some easy steps you can take include: wiping down your instrument after each practice session or performance; keeping away from heat sources such as radiators and fireplaces; and storing it in a cool dry place with good ventilation at all times.
Read this post for more tips on how to deal with a broken violin string.
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Is It Normal For Violin Strings To Break
It’s not unusual for violin strings to break for one of several reasons.
The E string is the thinnest string and breaks the most commonly. But all strings can break from ordinary use. As you play the violin, the metal is gradually worn away; which will ultimately cause the strings to break.
Violin strings can also break when they are over-tightened. Inexperienced players have a tendency to turn the peg too far when setting up the strings on their own.
Another cause for strings breaking is improper installation of the strings when they are restrung. In general, it is recommended that you have a professional restring your instrument, but if you decide to take on the task, you should avoid forcing the string into the peg hole during installation.
Strings often break at the peg when they are pinched against the side of the pegbox when installed.
What To Do If A Violin String Breaks
Violin strings most commonly break when you’re tuning the instrument and when you’re playing. There’s no question that if you’re not in the middle of a performance, you should replace the broken string.
A Few Tips To Properly Install A String:
- Make sure you place the strings in the correct bridge slots.
- Be certain that you put the strings on the right pegs.
- Don’t cross the replacement string over the other strings in the peg box
Check out this video for how to change a violin string.
Here are just a few tips for how to avoid breaking a string while you’re tuning your violin:
- Take your time and tune slowly.
- Don’t over-tighten the string.
- Tune the lowest string first and make your way up the strings.
What Happens If a String Breaks During a Performance
When you’re performing you are entertaining an audience; so, your reaction when a string breaks during a performance should be one that is the least upsetting to the audience.
Some advise to keep playing if possible; while others advise to stop playing and change out the broken string.
What is considered the least disruptive to the performance will depend on whether you are a soloist/principal or playing as an accompanist.
If you are a principal or soloist you need to switch instruments and continue on. If you’re able to continue without the string consider doing so.
If you decide to stop playing when you break a string, check your instrument to make sure the bridge is intact and that the post is fine. If everything on the instrument is ok, replace the string as quickly as possible and go back to playing.
Can You Fix a Broken Violin String
Usually, a broken violin string cannot be repaired. Depending on where it breaks, you may be able to knot it. However, this is a very temporary fix. Ultimately, the violin string will need to be replaced.
How Long Do Violin Strings Last
After researching several violin string brands, I have not found a brand that suggests how long its strings should last.
There are several factors that can affect the life expectancy of violin strings, including the amount of time you practice and play; how often and thoroughly you clean your strings; humidity where you live; how sweaty your hands are while you’re playing; and the brand and type of string you’re using.
Many violinists adhere to the belief that strings that are installed correctly are expected to withstand approximately 120 hours of playing time; while others choose to change their strings every 3 months or every 6 months.
Still, other violin players only change their strings when the quality of the instrument’s sound diminishes or they break a string.
Can You Play The Violin With 3 Strings
It is certainly possible for an advanced violinist to play the violin with 3 strings; in fact, violinist, Itzhak Perlman, is known for playing with just 3 strings.
However, it may not be advisable to play with 3 violin strings for an extended period of time. Playing with less than 4 strings can cause the instrument’s post to collapse. Such a collapse can lead to the need for a potentially expensive post adjustment.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Broken Violin Strings
“Fixing” a broken violin string is usually synonymous with replacing the string. Most violinists know how to replace a broken string and choose to do it themselves. If you would rather have a professional replace the string, prices for these services are quite reasonable.
Price lists online show simple violin string replacements cost between $5 and $15 per string plus the cost of the string(s).
The cost of a full set of strings varies greatly and can be as little as $10 and as high as $90+.
Conclusion
This blog post offers some tips for how to deal with broken violin strings, including what you should do if your violin string breaks during a performance or practice session. Be sure to read the full article before heading out on stage. Read more posts from our team here at Everyday Performers about other topics related to violins and performing music.
