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OK I have seen debates on loosening the string tension after practicing.
Most often in context with gut or perlon strings, but even with steel core string because if the damage that can be done to bridge and top plate over time.
This is not loosening the strings all the way, just an octive lower to lessen the tension on the fore mentioned parts.
I wonder if this is needed and a good idea. I think so sense most of us have a tendence to check the tuning before we start.
What are you oppinions ?
With violins there is no fretting over the music.
King
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I would say, only if you're putting it away for a extended period of time. Loosening every time you stop playing will weaken the strings. IMO.
Read what other's have to say.
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Not necessary in the slightest IMAO.
Your violin is set up to tolerate the pressure placed on it by the strings tuned correctly. The sound-post counter acts a lot of the pressure on the belly. If you loosen the strings when not playing (especially by an octave) and re-tighten the strings every time you play, your strings will need some time to re-stretch and will tire quicker as well. It's like taking a thin piece of metal and bending it back and forth until the metal breaks. The strings will last longer if they are not stretched and slacked between practice and playing sessions. The instrument won't benefit, not to mention that the sound-post may move or fall when the strings are loosened.
I strongly disagree with the idea of loosening. Also, if you are storing your instrument for a long period of time, I guarantee the strings will loosen and stretch by themselves eventually.
"The richest person is not the one who has the most,
but the one who needs the least."
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Put me down for a NO vote. I agree with Pierre, they will loosen up over time if left alone in the case. Mine (Zyex, and Gut) didn't get played for a whole week while I was in Hawaii in early Jan of this year. When I got back I had to slightly touch (up) the tune on every single string. The steel strings on my cheap Chinese electric didn't change at all. It was in perfect tune although it wasn't touched for over a week.
Once in tune, leave it in tune...
"If you practice with your hands you must practice all day. Practice with your mind and you can accomplish the same amount in minutes." Nathan Milstein
Honorary tenured advisor
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Yea, I don't buy that string loosening idea either. It sounds like an rumor spread by a violin string company, so that they can sell more strings.
A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. ~Herm Albright
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