The Violin Explained: Components, Mechanism, and Sound

Beament, James

ISBN 10: 0198166230 / ISBN 13: 9780198166238

Published by Clarendon Press Oxford, Oxford, 1997

About this Item

9 1/2" x 6 1/4", xii, 245 pages, text illustrations, list for further reading. 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. Hb, fine in dw, some fading to spine of dw, otherwise a near fine copy.

Seller Inventory # 007831

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Violin Explained: Components, Mechanism, and Sound
• Publisher: Clarendon Press Oxford, Oxford
• Publication Date: 1997
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0198166230
• ISBN 13: 9780198166238
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Condition: Fine
• Dust Jacket Condition: Near Fine

About this title

Synopsis

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. This book explains how strings vibrate and the roles of the bow, bridge and body, glue and varnish, without assuming the reader has any scientific background. But physical sound is a poor indicator of the sensations it produces, and the core of the book explains how that sound relates to the sensations we hear. This leads to the conclusion that most of the myths are groundless, but also that nothing can be achieved by applying any modern technology to making or playing; indeed, it would be a disaster if that happened. Practical advice on strings, maintenance, purchase, and children's instruments conclude the discussion. This book is intended for amateur and professional violin makers; string players/performers; string teachers and students; students of acoustics/electronic instruments.

Review

a comprehensive look at what is known about the mechanics of the violin family. In a very readable and non-mathematical style he explains the nature of sound production...and confronts the question of tone assessment. Professor Beament's book is a refreshing read full of information which goes a long way to filling a distinct gap in the market. (The Strad)