Violin Forum/Message Board

Tommy Traddles · Junior Member Joined: 07 Feb 2014 Posts: 4

So, letting the forum know that I have ZERO experience in crafting an instrument. I have a question.

Is the spiral a necessary component to a good fiddle? I read somewhere else on the internet about something called a "Gatorhead" but couldn't find any picture. Don't get me wrong I love the aesthetic. Just generally curious.

Thanks!

kjb · Super Member Joined: 06 Feb 2013 Posts: 385

you can do what ever you want

kubasa · Member Joined: 13 Sep 2007 Posts: 212

kjb is right. I think the scroll is more a matter of tradition. I had read somewhere that the scroll has an affect on the sound depending on the mass/density but I'll leave that discussion to someone much more knowledgeable than me!!

I've seen all kinds of scrolls. Actually, if it is a horses head, is it still the scroll? Not sure what it would be called then but there are lots of interesting shapes that people have tried over time. One maker that comes to mind is Guy Rabut. He makes traditional but also dabbles with modern designs and "scrolls".

http://rabutviolins.com/details/special/blackviolin1.htm

James

Michael Darnton · Posted: Wed Feb 19, 2014 11:16 am Post subject:

For a fiddle, you can carve whatever you want. If you are making something for a classical player, you will find their idea of what a violin is most likely doesn't include anything but a normal scroll.
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