Violin Forum/Message Board

famuswood · Member Joined: 28 Sep 2009 Posts: 75 Location: Smyrna, TN

It seems like there are quite a few terms used in the construction of violins that are not defined much when referring to parts of the violin. Perhaps these are shop slang or "in" terms. I have been looking for definitions of terms like root, head, heel, etc. Is there a website that lays out these commonly used but seldom defined shop terms for the anatomical parts of the violin? I just wanted to be communicating correctly when describing my various issues related to violin construction.

Thanks

Andres Sender · Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 4:34 pm Post subject:

http://www.maestronet.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=312267

The Johnson/Courtnall book covers most of what you need regarding violins.

Jack London · Junior Member Joined: 19 Dec 2007 Posts: 22

I was confused by the term "horn of the head" used in a recent post. Could someone define this one, both individually and together?

Andres Sender · Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 6:24 pm Post subject:

Why don't you ask the person who used that unique term to define it? If you're lucky you'll get a very long essay on why it's perfectly reasonable to use it instead of the term used in every article, book, talk, correspondence and post I can think of by professionals, experts, and even some amateurs. Wink

rs · Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 7:09 pm Post subject:

Horn is an antiquated term. It is the point in the back of the head (pegbox and scroll) directly behind the nut.

I used this term to show where the measurement should be taken as opposed to the curve where it joins the neck. Sorry for any misunderstanding.

Best wishes
_________________
Randall Shenefelt

famuswood · Member Joined: 28 Sep 2009 Posts: 75 Location: Smyrna, TN

Thanks Andres - there were some very interesting terms on the link you sent from Gallo's postings. I have the Johnson/Courtnall book but they sometimes use terms matter-of-factly - so to speak, and at least for me, it can be a little confusing.

Jack London · Junior Member Joined: 19 Dec 2007 Posts: 22

[quote]Why don't you ask the person who used that unique term to define it?

1. I did not know it was a unique term;

2. I thought this would be would be a good place to ask.

Any other questions?

John Cadd · Posted: Thu Nov 05, 2009 12:44 pm Post subject:

I mentioned a Hag`s Tooth in a tool shop once and the salesman looked very confused.I think it`s used for shallow cutouts (eg for sinking a door hinge level with the surface). The old phrases have a direct punchy charm that you grow to like. You do know what a hag is don`t you?

Andres Sender · Posted: Thu Nov 05, 2009 3:05 pm Post subject:

Jack--it was a rhetorical suggestion. I liked the smiley face version of your answer better. Wink