Bowed String Maintenance
Precision care and technical optimization for violins, violas, and cellos to permanently secure the tonal brilliance and playability of your instrument.
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A bowed string instrument is a highly sensitive interaction of tonewoods, organic glues, and immense tension. Even the slightest deviation in the position of the bridge or incorrect string tension can not only severely impair the sound but also lead to long-term structural damage to the instrument's body. At the Batsmanluno workshop in Graz, we dedicate ourselves to preserving this tradition with modern precision and deep respect for the substance of every instrument.
Our maintenance goes far beyond a simple string change. We analyze the entire geometry of the instrument, check the stability of the joints, and optimize the acoustic coupling between the strings and the body. To achieve this, we utilize a controlled environment with a constant humidity level of 45-55%, protecting the wood from tension cracks during processing and ensuring optimal material stability for the long term.
The Instrument Maintenance Process in 4 Steps
- Diagnostics and Intake: Upon delivery to our workshop at Jakominiplatz, a free initial diagnosis is performed. We check the condition of the varnish, the integrity of the seams, the correct alignment of the bridge, and the soundpost position.
- Technical Basic Cleaning: We carefully remove accumulated rosin dust and impurities from the f-holes and the fingerboard to prepare the material surfaces for precise adjustment.
- Adjustment and Optimization: Depending on the chosen package, we perform bridge adaptation, align the string height, and optimize the string spacing to maximize playability and perfect the intonation.
- Final Inspection and Acceptance: Every instrument is finally tuned and checked for tonal balance. You receive a detailed report on all work performed and specific recommendations for further care.
Who is our maintenance designed for?
Our services are aimed at a wide spectrum of musicians in Graz and the surrounding Styria region. This includes students of the music academy who require maximum precision for their examinations, as well as professional orchestra musicians whose instruments are subject to extreme daily loads. We also support ambitious amateurs and collectors who wish to maintain the value of their instruments through professional care. Whether it is a simple annual revision or a comprehensive overhaul after a long period of inactivity, we adapt the intensity of the maintenance to the individual playing style and the current condition of the instrument.
How the work in the workshop is carried out
As soon as your instrument arrives, it is moved to our climate-controlled storage zone to adapt to the workshop conditions. The actual work is performed on specialized workbenches. We use high-quality tools specifically calibrated for the softwoods and hardwoods used in bowed instruments. We place particular emphasis on documentation: we record which string brands were used and which specific adjustments were made. The average processing time for a standard maintenance is approximately 5 days, although we communicate individually with you for more complex overhauls.
What you should prepare for the appointment
To accelerate the process, we ask that you bring your instrument in its original hard case. If you have specific preferences regarding string brands or a particular string tension (especially for cellos), please inform us upon delivery. If you have a list of known issues—such as a slight buzz on a specific string or a feeling of too much resistance when fingering—it helps us refine the diagnosis. Please do not bring your own non-certified replacement parts, as we only use materials that meet our strict quality standards.
What you receive at the end of the maintenance
Upon completion of the work, we return your instrument along with a written maintenance protocol. This document contains all steps performed, the materials used, and measured values (e.g., string height at the bridge). Furthermore, you receive concrete recommendations for daily care and handling the instrument during extreme weather conditions typical for Graz. Upon request, we can provide photos of internal work (such as the positioning of the soundpost) so that you can understand the technical improvements made.
Timeframes and Delivery
The duration of the maintenance depends heavily on the chosen package. A simple string change with basic adjustment can often be completed within a few days. A complete overhaul, which may involve resetting the bridge or correcting the soundpost, takes more time. On average, our adjustment time is 5 days. We strictly adhere to the agreed dates to ensure your instrument is back in time for your concerts or rehearsals. Please note that we store instruments for a maximum of 14 days after completion.
Services NOT included in the standard maintenance
Our maintenance focuses on technical upkeep and adjustment. Extensive varnish repairs, closing body cracks, or the complete construction of a new instrument are not included (for these, please visit our custom build page). Additionally, we do not perform work on instruments containing materials from protected species (such as ivory or Brazilian rosewood) unless valid CITES documents are provided. Bow cleaning is not included in the basic instrument maintenance but can be booked as an additional service.
Pricing and Value Added Tax
Our prices are transparent and based on the actual labor required. The amounts listed in the price table include the statutory VAT of 20%. For commercial clients or institutions (e.g., music schools), we provide the net amount separately. Final billing is based on the cost estimates agreed upon in advance. Should unforeseen defects appear during the work that exceed the chosen maintenance scope, we will contact you immediately to coordinate additional costs before proceeding.
Scope of Maintenance Services
- Inspection of overall body stability and seam control
- Professional replacement of all strings with precise tuning
- Bridge adjustment to optimize string height and intonation
- Inspection and minimal correction of the soundpost
- Cleaning of the fingerboard and removal of rosin residues
- Checking peg stability and lubrication where necessary
- Inspection of the string holder and tailpiece
| Service Package | Price incl. VAT (20%) | Price excl. VAT | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Service (Strings, Bridge) | 95.00 € | 79.17 € | Instrument |
| Complete Overhaul | 210.00 € | 175.00 € | Instrument |
Frequently Asked Questions about Bowed String Care
How often should a violin or cello be maintained?
Are the strings included in the maintenance price?
What happens if my instrument has a crack?
What is the warranty on the performed work?
All work is performed in accordance with our Terms and Conditions. Please note that liability for the instrument during storage in our workshop is subject to our insurance policy guidelines.
For further information on the optimal care of your instruments, we recommend our guide: When to Change Strings and Bow Hair. If you would like an overview of all our services, please visit the Services page.
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