Why Do Aging Violins Sound Better Than Their Modern Counterparts?

There is a widely held belief that old violins sound better than new ones. However, this assumption is not always accurate. A more appropriate question might be: 'Why do violins improve over time as they age?' This improvement is a result of several complex factors, including the drying process of the wood, the oxidation of the surface, and the craftsmanship involved in making the instrument.

The Drying Process of the Wood

Violin makers often wait for an extended period before finishing the wood, allowing the moisture to slowly evaporate. This process can take several years. The water content diminishes quickly, but it takes longer for the resins, which are the sticky sap in trees, to fully harden. Resins, especially in the deeper layers of the wood, take significantly longer to dry equally. As the resins near the surface dry, they start to harden, enabling the wood to vibrate more efficiently.

The drying process may take about a year to complete. This is a critical period during which the instrument’s sound quality develops. During this time, the wood changes composition, becoming semi-stable and more conducive to producing a rich, resonant sound.

Wood Oxidation and Tonal Quality

Another factor that significantly influences the tonal quality of a violin is wood oxidation. Over the years, the surface of the wood inside the instrument gradually changes, turning brown and enhancing the sound. This natural process is akin to a fine wine maturing in a barrel, gradually developing a unique and refined character.

It's important to note that not all violins improve with age. Every violin begins with its own distinct sound profile. Some violins may start with inferior tonal characteristics and, no matter how much time passes, may never compete with a well-crafted new violin with superior sound quality. Public blind tests have consistently proven this fact.

Blind Tests and Public Perception

To explore this concept, I personally presented a blind test of 12 cellos at the Fourth American Cello Congress. Six were new, and six were old. The test was conducted by a renowned cellist, who played behind a large linen screen to prevent the audience from seeing the cellos, ensuring the comparison was as objective as possible.

The cellist was blindfolded and played an impressive selection of cello pieces. This test, involving a highly experienced musician, provided a unique insight into the subjective nature of instrument quality. Despite the age-old belief in the superiority of old violins, the results showed that new violins can compete with and sometimes surpass their aged counterparts.

Exemplary Craftsmanship and Superior Materials

A violin's sound quality is significantly influenced by the quality of the materials used, the craftsmanship, and the environment in which it is made. Craftsmen who use the finest materials and take their time to carefully shape and adjust the instrument can create a viola with excellent tonal qualities. Some parts of the world, particularly those where hardwoods are naturally cultivated in colder climates for longer periods, can produce wood that is both stable and resonant.

The grains in the wood can grow closer together, transmitting a more faithful waveform to the ear. The exact thickness and shape of the panels in a violin's bodywork are also crucial. The violin maker must respect nodes and antinodes to determine which harmonics are valued and thus highlighted, which helps to color the timbre of the instrument. This attention to detail ensures that the final product is not only beautiful but also produces a rich, full sound.

While the process of aging a violin can enhance its sound, the end result is influenced by many factors. The initial craftsmanship and materials play a significant role in determining the instrument's potential for developing a superior sound over time. Therefore, understanding the role of these factors is essential for appreciating the unique qualities of both old and new violins.