Violin Tuning

Just like any other string instrument, your violin will require periodic tuning to keep them in the correct key – violin tuning should not be a frustrating experience for the beginner because you’re learning how your instrument should sound! While some people are gifted with perfect pitch and can tune solely by ear, you will probably have to learn how to use a tuning aid in addition to your own ear when you are getting started with violin tuning.

Violin Tuning Methods

When you are tuning your violin, you will notice that there are both tuning pegs and fine tuners – the first time you tune your violin, or if you leave it unattended for a long period of time, will probably require the use of the tuning pegs. These are used to tighten the strings when they are more than a half note out of tune. The fine tuners are meant only for minor string adjustments, so you will only use them to tune your violin if the string is less than a half note out of tune.

Difficulty of Violin Tuning

The difficulty of tuning your violin will largely depend on your individual skill level – and how out of tune the instrument is. For instance, if your violin is only slightly out of tune, then it will only require minor adjustments of the fine tuners. However, if it’s so out of tune that you are required to use the tuning pegs then it will take more time to correct the sound. Using the pegs during violin tuning isn’t necessarily more difficult, but it does take a lot more patience if you want to do a good job at it.

Double-checking Your Violin Tuning

You should make it a habit to always double check your tuning job, no matter what skill level you are. In addition to going over your work twice, you should also take the time to check the bridge of your violin – it should always be completely straight. If you don’t take the time to straighten the bridge, the sound quality of your instrument will decrease. You will most likely have to adjust the bridge after every violin tuning session.

Improving Your Violin Tuning Technique

If you are having a difficult time tuning your violin, then take a minute and slow down – you should only tighten one string at a time so that you can hear what adjustments need to be made, and the strings need to be tightened in the order of G-D-A-E. If you are unable to tune it by ear, then there are several different tuning aids that you can use. For instance, many people use a chromatic tuner or a keyboard to compare notes with. There are also several online tuning aids that you can use; however, the quality may not be on par with handheld tuner.

As a side note, it’s very important to remember to use care when tuning the E string – if you are too impatient when you are tightening the string it will easily snap in half. One of the best ways to pick up violin tuning is by watching someone else do it in person – or at the very least in an online video. However, nothing makes up for your own practice!