AboutDavid Expertise I mainly aim to answer questions about playing techniques--intonation,
vibrato, bowing etc. I am somewhat familiar with Baroque and Classical music, though not as much with Romantic. I am unable to answer questions about advanced music theory, violin crafters/brands or the monetary value of a violin.
Experience I have played the violin about nine discontinuous years. Most of my work has been orchestral, with some soloing throughout. I was principal 2nd violinist of the Disney Honors Orchestra in 1998, a six-time All-State Orchestra violinist, a two-time assistant concertmaster and two-time concertmaster of my All-County Orchestra. I also have perfect pitch, which I believe can be learned (though I do not claim to know how to teach it).
Since starting medical school in 2004, I have had fewer chances to play, but I hope to someday resume on a regular basis.
Question I am an eleven year violinist and i have always used the "dominant" brand of strings. Recently, a friend recomended a Piastro Gold Label for my E string and I am very pleased with its performance. I am looking for strings to replace all of the dominant strings and prefer strings with a deeper and clearer tone. I usually perform solo and play in upscale restraunts and weddings, so I need a string that is of good quality. Any suggestions?
Answer First of all, congratulations on being one of the rare preteens already into solo performances, that is admirable (and pays good money).
To answer your question, it depends on your violin's nature. I have always preferred the Corelli Alliance string (not to be confused with the considerably less expensive "Crystal" variety which is not as good). They tend to give a rich, warm sound. The Pirastro Synoxa string is the opposite, producing a very bright and possibly shrill sound (recommended for violins that are tubby-sounding to begin with). Since you have been using Thomastik Dominant for a while, I can say with reasonable certainty that your violin is neither very shrill nor very tubby and probably won't benefit from Pirastro Synoxas. I have not tried the Pirastro Gold Label variety myself, but since you were happy with it I believe that it is somewhat different from the Synoxa (you've helped me there, thanks). The one brand of string to truly avoid is Super-Sensitive, although you probably already knew that. Those strings just don't give very good tone or response, and are best for beginners who can't really recognize a good sound just yet.
Hope this answers your question--good luck in all your endeavors!
