The following outline on the basics of string instrument maintenance reflects the topics addressed during a shop visit:

• I. Bridge
  • Selection
  • Placement
  • Correct angle with strings
  • Fit of feet
  • String height
  • Maintaining correct angle
  • Tone and playability
• II. Strings
  • Cleaning
  • Pinching to correct bridge
• III. Cleaning Instrument
  • Wiping
  • Polishes
• IV. Post material
  • Usual
  • Best
• V. Peg Dope
  • Mortite
  • Usual
• VI. Chin Rests
  • Change sound
  • Must not be too loose or tight
  • Must be custom fit with chalk
• VII. Shoulder Pads
  • Kill sound
  • Best is none
  • Next best is foam or sponge
  • Clamping types mute or change sound
• VIII. Openings
  • Common
  • Loss of sound
• IX. Buzzes
  • “Ain’t bees!”
  • Many possible sources – some you can fix: loose adjusters, loose collars or pins, ball ends of strings
• X. Bow Mating
  • Importance of finding a bow that helps your instrument sound its best
  • Many bows kill sound on great instruments
• XI. Importance of a good case
  • such as a suspension case for maintaining adjustment against bangs
• XII. Temperature!
  • Trunks/cars
  • Heat and cold