1 mins
Welcome
Welcome to The Strad ’s 2022 Accessories supplement, this year expanded to include even more products and inspiration for string players.
With all the difficulties the world is currently facing – the terrible war in Ukraine and the aftershocks of Covid-19 – we need to remember that environmental issues must still be high on the agenda. On page 4 Peter Somerford explores some of the products available, from alternatives to endangered woods such as ebony and pernambuco, to vegan rosin and synthetic horsehair, and even a ‘vegan’ violin made without using any animal products.
The tools and accessories used by players, teachers and luthiers are constantly developing and changing to become more useful and, in many cases, less wasteful. On page 20 a selection of string players from different walks of life, from star soloist to student, reveal the sometimes surprising go-to accessories that make their playing lives easier.
Until recently, luthiers have regarded 3D printing as just a means of making copies of instruments. However, as Harry White explores on page 36, the evolution of this technology is proving invaluable to makers, as it is being used to create models, small parts and customised tools, with more applications on the way.
Emma Baker editor
Email me at thestrad@thestrad.com or tweet @TheStradMag
4 Sustainable string playing