Every violinist is required to know how to tune a violin. Violin tuning is done before you begin playing any piece of music, to make sure all your four strings, G D A E are in tune.
You can get your violin tuned in many ways, using a tuning fork, a pitch pipe, an 'A' note produced by any instrument, or using your own perfect ears.
Here are the few simple methods which you learn how to tune a violin, and some tools which can assist you...
Using a chromatic tuner to tune your violin is quite easy and useful. It is usually small and portable. It often contains 12 semitones for effective tuning. Click here to learn how to tune with an electric chromatic tuner.
Tuning with the piano is another effective way to tune the violin. Classical piano, or electrical keyboard can be used, but the latter is preferred. Click here to learn how to tune with the piano.
Before you begin...
Here are some of the tips and guidelines while tuning your own violin...
If you doesn't feel confident how to tune a violin, it is recommended to look for a professional to assist you.
'A' string is always to first string to get tuned. It sets a benchmark for other strings to be tuned easier.
While tuning, take note of the strings. Tune your strings s.l.o.w.l.y
either by using the pegs, or the fine-tuners. Strings are tied under extreme pressure. Hence, turning pegs to fast may break the strings, or even damage the violin.
If you find that it is hard to turn the peg sometimes while tuning, loosen the string by turning the peg towards you first, then tune it up again by turning it away from you.
Use the fine tuner, if you are near to hitting the right tune. This is especially for E string, when its fine tuner is usually used while tuning the string.
While turning the fine tuner, do not turn it too much. Its bottom may come into contact with the violin. This may cause damage and 'scars' to the finishes of the violin. Do frequent checks if the bottom touch the surface. Loosen the fine tuner, and use the peg.
If strings break while tuning, its okay! It was just an accident, or an indication that it is time to change. Don't be too upset.
Another problem while tuning the violin, is that the pegs will not stay in place after you have hit the right tune. The peg may be too loose, or it fits in the violin badly. You can solve by:
Using a little more force and turn the peg inwards while you turn. This is to fix the peg and make it tighter. Be careful and not to use too much force, you may damage the violin.
Pulling out the peg, and rub some chalk on it, then put it back. This is to give some friction to prevent the peg from slipping again.
Getting a professional to refit the pegs for you if the problems persist.
Do not get disheartened if you take a long time to get your violin tuned. Every violinist has to learn how to tune a violin, and learning need patience.
