Violin Varnish

After more than eight years of extensive research on the varnish used by the Italian Violin Makers from 1550 to 1750 A. D., it has not been possible to corroborate the results in the chemical laboratory. This is due entirely to the unavailability of samples of the varnish for confirmatory analysis. Violins made by the Italian masters of this period are so valuable and so scarce that a small sample of the varnish has not been procurable for experimental purposes. Therefore, synthesis must precede analysis . . . . and with no assistance from the latter. This, then, will explain the sub-title of this book as: "A Plausible Re-creation of the Varnish Used by the Italian Makers Between the Years 1550 and 1750 A. D." However, the results of this investigation are so logical and so deeply supported by a vast amount of convincing evidence, that publication of the book is in order. First, possibly the findings will be confirmed, or otherwise, by investigators who may be more fortunate in having access to material from authentic violins made by the old masters. Confirmatory chemical tests will be suggested; it should be comparatively simple, especially through modern micro-analytical methods, to determine the presence of certain constituents in the varnish. The subject matter of this book will of necessity become technical, especially when the theoretical aspects are considered. It is realized that not everyone who will be interested in the rediscovery of the old Italian varnish will also be interested in the scientific deductions and conclusions. For this reason, a chapter will be included in which the preparation of the materials from which the varnish is made, the formulation of the varnish and its application will be reduced to the simplest terms. The old masters who lived several hundred years ago and who possessed none of the advantages of modern technology also used only the simplest technique in varnishing and finishing their violins.

This book contains classic material dating back to the 1900s and before. The content has been carefully selected for its interest and relevance to a modern audience. Carefully selecting the best articles from our collection we have compiled a series of historical and informative publications on the subject of violins. The titles in this range include "A Guide to Violin Strings" "A History of Violins in England" "Paganini and the Violin" and many more. Each publication has been professionally curated and includes all details on the original source material. This particular instalment, "A Guide to Violin Varnish" contains information on the development and qualities of different violin varnishes. It is intended to illustrate aspects of violin construction and serves as a guide for anyone wishing to obtain a general knowledge of the subject and understand the field in its historical context. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.

This book is the only complete and up-to-date annotated bibliography available on women's activities and contributions in the creation and performance of music through the ages. Encompassing major books, articles and recordings published over the past five decades, the book examines a broad cross-section of contemporary thought, with each entry - with over 500 devoted to resources from countries outside the US - including annotation along with a critical description of content.

Throughout its history the violin has had a mystique with many curious beliefs. Physicists have now discovered how it produces its sound, though this knowledge is largely inaccessible to makers and players. Assuming no scientific background, this unique book explains not only how a violin produces sound but also of how that sound causes what we hear. Drawing on extensive experience as a performer and composer, Beament includes down-to-earth advice on strings, maintenance, purchase, and children's instruments.

A photo illustrated step by step instructional manual for violin retouching. This is the second edition of what may be the first book of its kind to clearly & informatively lay out the intriguing process of violin retouching, the book reads as if its title should be "Zen and the Art of Violin Retouching." Brian Epp has created a beautifully illustrated instructional manual, while simultaneously weaving his own crisp philosophy and heartwarming reminiscences throughout its pages. This is truly a gem for the lay person or for the professional artisan.