Violoncello da Spalla historical strings are big, tensed and overspun with a round wire. This means that when you tune, they tend to bring the bridge with them, even if you put graphite in the bridge's grooves. It is good practice to check that the bridge is straight daily, because if it’s not, the sound will be more resistant and poor. In this video chat with my customer Els, I show my technique to ensure that my bridge remains straight and is not under tension from one string pulling in one direction. It’s very easy, and it can be summarised as: lift/pinch and push.
If there is anything not clear, as a question in the comments. A straight bridge is fundamental for the quality of your playing and the health of your instrument.
Do you have a different way working well on the Violoncello da Spalla? Please tell us in the comments!
Are you a luthier interested in making a Violoncello da Spalla?
In the archive of this newsletter I documented the whole process, sharing measures and templates. You can check the index and some of the posts at this link, and if you subscribe to a payed plan you have instant access to all the posts and to a private chat where you can ask me any question.
Save the date, book the flight! What can be possibly better than the opportunity of trying a Violoncello da Spalla AND enjoying a weekend in one of the most interesting towns in the world? The opportunity of trying 3 spallas!
We’ll be exhibiting in London again! On February the 8th, in Kings Place London, we’ll be exhibiting at the British Violin Makers Association Makers Day. We’ll probably bring there 3 da spalla cellos by Daniela, plus a violin and a cello by Alessandro, the wonderful cello that you can hear in the video.
Book your flight now and add to the opportunity of trying a Violoncello da Spalla the special treat of a holiday in one of the most interesting towns in the world, rich of history and fabulous museums.
We wish you and your dearest ones a wonderful holiday season!
Daniela & Alessandro
