Violin Forum/Message Board

[ghammond]

Hi All,

So, what are your thoughts on the 5 string fiddle? Does anyone here play one? Does anyone here prefer one? What are the ups and the downs of this instrument vs a regular 4 string fiddle?

I was checking out this video on youtube which was kind of entertaining:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiwJMfn06Mk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bF5kKG3sWaU

How do these things size up as far as "functionality"? Is it easier to play certain songs with an extra string? And does it make reading sheet music more difficult, easier or just different?

Cool - thanks everyone!
-G

[okawbow]

I made a five string based on a large "Guarneri Alard"model. I increased the top thickness slightly and added enough to the pegbox to accomodate the extra peg, but otherwise, made it the same as a 4 string.

I was told that it was difficult to get the C string even with the other 4, or else the E string was weak if the C string was ok. However, my attempt turned out very well, and had good power and even tone. The fiddler that bought it has won some competitions with it, and plays it daily.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/20524843@N03/2004039387/in/set-72157603148712079/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/20524843@N03/2004838012/in/set-72157603148712079/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/20524843@N03/2004837322/in/set-72157603148712079/

The 5th string give an instrument a wided range. Fiddlers like to improvise, and it gives them more room to do so.

[Chad48309]

Giving an artist more means is never a bad thing, in my book. I can't see any real argument against one. However, I can understand the arguments against conversion from an original 4-string to a 5-string. In my opinion, the instrument should be built with it in mind. I've only ever seen one conversion in my life, and it was atrocious. Not because of the fit of the strings, but because of the tragic way it degraded the sound of the instrument.

I wouldn't say it increases or decreases difficulty. From those who I've talked to, it's simply different. In some cases, it will not terrifically impact performance, but in other cases it can completely change the fingerings for a piece. Again, I wouldn't call this an increase in difficulty. Just like playing a 7-string guitar will not increase the difficulty of a piece normally played by a 6-string guitar.
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-C.S.

[ghammond]

Thanks for the info guys!

That's a really nice 5 string! I like the light varnish job. Shows the wood patterns nicely.

I also like the walleye in the background! Is that your work as well?

[ghammond]

The 5 string does look a bit larger than most violins. Hard to tell from the picture, but is it viola size?

I've been toying with the idea of viola lately, to tell the truth. I like their deep, rich sound.

[okawbow]

Actually, the body is still within accepted size for a large 4/4 violin. I also made the fingerboard a few mm's wider to allow for the extra string. I tried to keep the neck as playable as possible, however. The bridge is usually cut a little flatter because fiddlers play more double stops on 5 strings.

[ghammond]

Makes sense.

And I assume that you increased the top thickness to support the extra tension from the 5 strings.