Market research
on Violins and
Violin maintenance
GROUP 3
1. ANADI KISHORE
2. AADIT DESHPANDE
3. VYOMINI THAKUR
4. IRA KHER
AEIOU CHART
ATTATCHED IN FILE
SHORTLISTING ACTIVITIES
FROM AEIOU CHART
1. MAINTAINANCE OF BOW HAIR AND OVERALL FUNCTIONALITY
2. MONITORING TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY OF THE VIOLIN
3. WITHSTANDING HARSH AND UNSTABLE TRAVELLING
EXPERIENCES
4. QUALITY ACCESSORIES FOR VIOLINS TO AID THE PLAYING
PROCESS
TARGET AUDIENCE
1. CLASSICAL MUSICIANS
2. VIOLIN STUDENTS
3. AMATEUR MUSICIANS
4. FOLK AND TRADITIONAL MUSICIANS
5. MUSIC TEACHERS
6. ORCHESTRA CONDUCTORS
7.PROFESSIONAL SOLOISTS
8. MUSIC THERAPISTS
9. LUTHIERS
PRODUCTS RELATED
TO AEIOU CHART
ROSIN APPLICATOR ; the standard practice of applying the rosin on the bow hair is to directly rub the
stone on the hair of your bow, which can have damaging effect on the fragile hair. The sharp edged of the
stone may cause discomfort in the smooth and even application process. Hence, an ergonomic applicator for
the rosin might be beneficial to the playing process
DAMPIT/ HUMIDITY STABILISER: the current model of the dampit is highly unreliant since it needs to
be re hydrated every 10 minutes, is not fully absorbant and drips water on the inside of your violin. Hence, a
newer more suitable model will precent tainting of the wood of the instrument.
PADDED PROTECTION CASE: while travelling with a violin, the strings must be loosened so they do not
snap, then the instrument must be covered with a soft cloth to prevent any cracks in the wood or snapping of
bow hair or strings. This leads to a lot of unnecessary steps that may not be fulfilled in a rush. Hence, a
molded padding case would better fit a violin for travel purpouses.
BOW REDESIGN: the current bow design leaves little to no space for a proper grip. A redesigned more ergonomic bow will
help musicians have better motor control over their instrument
VIOLIN STAND
LUTHIER TOOLS : better, simpler and more efficient luthier tools might bhelp even beginner violinists fix their
instruments at home. \
VIOLIN MUTE; an adapted violin mute that allows the player to mute only certain strings of a violin.
LIST OF CONCERNS
SAMPLE SIZE FOR USER REASEARCH AND SURVEY
COMPLEXITY OF MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS AND IABILITY TO CHANGE OVERALL SOUND
LACK OF IN DEPTH KNOWLEDGE ABOUT THE INSTRUMENTS
PREDICTING THE FOCAL POINT OF RESEARCH;FILTERING OUT DATA TO REACH A PROBLEM
STATEMENT
FINDING A SIMPLE; BY THYE BOOKS SOLUTION TO A COMPLEX PROBLEM
SHORTLISTING SOME ACTIVITIES FOR FURTHER RESEARCH
SOURCING DIFFICULT MATERIALS FOR EVENTUAL PROTOTYPING
STRICT TIME CONSTRAINT FOR IN DEPTH RESEARCH
PRE- EXISTING PRODUCTS IN
THE MARKET
1. VIOLINS
15. BOWING AID
2. VIOLIN BOWS
3. VIOLIN STRINGS 16. HUMIDISTAT
4. VIOLIN CASES 17.FINGERBOARD TAPE
5. ROSIN 18. POLISHING CLOTH
6. CHIN RESTS AND SHOULDER RESTS
19. HYGROMETER
7. TUNERS AND METRONOMES
20. STRING CLEANER
8. SHEET MUSIC
9. VIOLIN CLEANING AND MAINTAINANCE KITS
10.AMPLIFIERS AND PICK UPS
11. MUTES
12. HUMIDIFIERS
13. TAILPIECES
14. END PINS AND FINE TUNERS
PADDED PROTECTION
CASES
A PROTECTION CASE OF A VIOLIN USUALLY STARTS FROM 890
INR AND CAN GO UP TO 42000 INR.
SOME OF THE BEST CASES FOR VIOLINS ARE;
Roth & Junius RJVC
Musafia Aeternum
bam 2003XLW Cabin
Gewa Liuteria Venezia
The shape generally determines storage capacity. There are roughly
speaking three categories of shapes: oblong cases, half-moon, and overhead.
VIOLIN BOW
VIOLIN BOWS USUALLY GO FOR 2000 INR AND UP.
There are two types of materials used for violin bow hair: synthetic hair and horse hair. Horse
hair is by far the most common material that we use to make bows, but some violinists prefer
to use synthetic vegan bow hair for ethical reasons.
Most violin bows are around 60g with some going as low as 52-54g. The lighter the stick, the
less effort to hold and as a result, better control over the bow
SOME OF THE BEST BOWS AVAILABLE IN THE MARKET
1. Col Legno Supreme.
Coda Diamond GX.
Fiddlerman Carbon Fiber
Arcus S7
What is the best quality violin bow hair?
Generally, unbleached Mongolian horsehair is considered the gold standard for violin bows.
ROSIN APPLICATOR
A SINGLE PIECE OF ROSIN USUALLY GOES IN THE INDIAN MARKETS FOR 150 INR TO
10,000 INR. THE QUALITY OF THE ROSIN DEPENDS ON ITS ACIDITY LEVEL.
Most violinists use lighter- to amber rosins to achieve smoother sounds, while bass rosin is on the softer,
stickier side to provide increased friction and richer tone. There are many brands of rosin on the
market, with lower quality products using cheaper ingredients, and higher quality products using
handpicked ingredients and a more sophisticated fabrication process.Rosin comes in 3 typical forms:
Flower Rosin, Dried/Cured Flower IWE/Bubble Hash Rosin and Live Bubble Hash Rosin/WPFF
Rosin.
1. Leatherwood Bespoke Violin Rosin
2. Cecilia A Piacere Violin Rosin
3. Andrea Solo Violin Rosin
4. Melos Light Violin Rosin
5. Cecilia Sanctus Violin Rosin
Bernardel Rosin for Violin Viola or Cello - Amber
VIOLIN STANDS
MOST VIOLIN STANDS IN THE MARKET GO FROM 900 INR TO ABOUT 40,000 NINR. THE DIFFERENCE IN PRICE IS
ATTRIBUTED TO THE MATERIAL OF THE STAND, DURABILITY, TYPE OF VIOLIN ETC. `
Violin stands are essential accessories for violinists as they provide a safe and convenient way to store and display violins when not in
use. There are various types of violin stands available to suit different needs and preferences.
1.Single Violin Stand:
2.Multiple Violin Stand:
3.Violin and Bow Stand:
4.Collapsible/Portable Violin Stand:
5.Wall-Mounted Violin Hangers
6.Violin Floor Rack:
7.Display Stands:
SOME OF THE BEST VIOLIN STAND BRANDS IN TODAYS MARKET ARE
•1) 'A' Foldable Violin Stand- SUVM-A 100BK. ...
•2) Portable Foldable Violin Stand. ...
•3) Tripod Portable Violin, Ukulele and Mandolin Stand. ...
•4) SV-VN Foldable Violin Stand. ...
•5) Violin and Viola Adjustable Stand. ...
•6) Portable and Foldable Metal Violin Hanger/Stand.
PRODUCT ANALYSIS
Size: Most adult violins are 4/4 (full size), while smaller sizes like
3/4 and 1/2 are available for children.
Materials: The body is typically crafted from tonewoods like
spruce for the top plate and maple for the back, sides, and neck.
The fingerboard is usually ebony or another hardwood. The bow is
typically made from wood (often Brazilwood) with horsehair.
Purpose: An average acoustic violin is designed for beginners,
students, and intermediate players.
Target Audience: Students, hobbyists, and individuals starting
their violin learning journey.
Market Size: The market for student and intermediate violins is
significant, with numerous brands and models available.
Famous brands available in the market:
Stradivarius (Antonio Stradivari): While Antonio Stradivari is a historical figure known for
crafting some of the most sought-after violins in the world, there are modern companies
using the Stradivarius name to produce violins inspired by his designs.
Cremona: Cremona is a well-known brand offering a range of violins suitable for beginners,
intermediate players, and professionals.
Yamaha: Yamaha produces a wide variety of musical instruments, including violins. They
offer student and intermediate-level violins that are known for their quality and
affordability.
Stentor: Stentor is a popular brand for student-level and entry-level violins. They are known
for producing affordable instruments suitable for beginners.
Price Range:
Student-Level Violins: These violins are typically designed for beginners and students.
They are often made with basic materials and craftsmanship.
Price Range: ₹2,000 to ₹10,000 or more.
Intermediate-Level Violins: Intermediate-level violins are suitable for players who have
advanced beyond the beginner stage and may require better quality and sound.
Price Range: ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 or more.
Professional-Level Violins: These violins are crafted with higher-quality materials and
precision. They are suitable for advanced players, including professionals and serious
enthusiasts.
Price Range: ₹30,000 and up, with professional violins ranging from ₹50,000 to several
lakhs or more, depending on the brand and craftsmanship.
Antique or Vintage Violins: Rare antique or vintage violins, especially those with
historical significance or exceptional craftsmanship, can be considerably more expensive
and may reach lakhs or even crores of rupees.
Parts of a violin
Body
Top Plate (Soundboard): The top plate, usually made of spruce, is one of the most crucial components for
sound production. It amplifies the vibrations created by the strings.
Back Plate: The back plate is typically made of maple and reflects and enhances the sound produced by
the top plate.
Ribs (Sides): The ribs connect the top and back plates and help shape the body of the violin. They are
usually made of maple.
Neck:
The neck extends from the body and supports the fingerboard and strings. It is typically made of maple
and is an integral part of the violin's structure.
Fingerboard:
The fingerboard is a long, thin piece of wood, typically made of ebony, that sits on top of the neck. It
provides a smooth surface for the fingers to press the strings against, allowing the player to change the
pitch of the notes.
Scroll:
The scroll is a carved decorative feature at the top of the neck. It serves no functional purpose in terms of
sound production but is a distinctive aesthetic element.
Pegbox:
The pegbox is located above the fingerboard and holds the tuning pegs. The pegs are used to tighten or loosen the strings to
adjust their pitch.
Tuning Pegs:
Tuning pegs are wooden or synthetic cylindrical rods inserted into the pegbox. They have a tapered shape that allows the
strings to be wound around them to adjust tension and tuning.
Tailpiece:
The tailpiece is a wooden or plastic piece located at the base of the violin. It holds the lower ends of the strings and provides
an anchor point for fine tuners (if present).
Fine Tuners:
Fine tuners are small metal devices attached to the tailpiece or tailpiece tail adjuster. They provide fine adjustments to the
tension of the strings, allowing for precise tuning.
Sound Holes (F-Holes):
The sound holes are two curved openings on the top plate, shaped like the letter "F." They play a crucial role in shaping the
sound of the violin by allowing air to escape, which affects the resonance and projection of the instrument.
Bridge:
The bridge is a curved, thin piece of wood that stands upright between the sound holes on the top plate. It supports the
strings and transmits their vibrations to the top plate.
Chinrest:
The chinrest is a wooden or plastic attachment on the tailpiece side of the violin. It provides a comfortable
resting place for the player's chin and helps support the instrument.
Tailgut:
The tailgut is a thin cord or wire that connects the tailpiece to the bottom of the violin. It helps hold the
tailpiece in place.
Factors that affect the playability of a violin:
String Height (Action):
The height of the strings above the fingerboard and the distance between the strings and the fingerboard (string action) are
critical for playability. If the strings are too high, it can be difficult to press them down, leading to fatigue and intonation
problems. If they are too low, it can cause buzzing and a loss of tone.
Neck Profile:
The shape and thickness of the neck greatly influence playability. A comfortable neck profile should allow the player's
hand to move freely along the fingerboard without strain. Different players may have preferences for neck profiles that suit
their hand size and playing style.
Fingerboard Condition:
The condition of the fingerboard affects how smoothly the player's fingers can glide across it. A well-maintained, smoothly
finished fingerboard promotes ease of playing. Rough or worn fingerboards can hinder playability.
Bridge Quality and Placement:
The bridge must be properly fitted and positioned on the violin. A well-carved bridge enhances the instrument's tonal
quality and makes it easier to produce clear notes. Incorrect bridge placement can result in poor string alignment and
playability issues.
Nut and Nut Height:
The nut, located at the top of the fingerboard, guides the strings to the pegs. It should be properly shaped and fitted. The
nut height, in combination with the bridge height, influences the string action at the lower end of the fingerboard.
Pegs and Peg Functionality:
The pegs should turn smoothly for easy tuning adjustments. Pegs that slip or are difficult to turn can make tuning challenging and affect
playability.
Tailpiece and Tailgut:
The tailpiece should securely hold the strings and be properly aligned with the bridge. A poorly fitted or unbalanced tailpiece can affect the
instrument's response and playability.
Bow Quality:
The quality of the violin bow can significantly impact playability. A well-balanced and properly rosin-ed bow is essential for producing clear
and even tones. Bow hair condition and tension also matter.
Soundpost and Bass Bar Placement:
The placement and fit of the soundpost and bass bar inside the violin affect its resonance and tonal characteristics. A well-adjusted
soundpost and bass bar can enhance playability by improving the instrument's sound quality and responsiveness.
String Quality and Type:
The choice of strings can influence playability and tone. Different strings have varying tension levels and tonal qualities. Players often
experiment with different string brands and types to find those that suit their playing style.
Chinrest and Shoulder Rest:
The comfort and adjustability of the chinrest and shoulder rest (if used) impact the player's posture and comfort
during extended practice and performance sessions.
Instrument Setup:
Proper setup, including regular maintenance and adjustments by a skilled luthier or violin technician, is crucial
for ensuring that all components of the violin work together harmoniously for optimal playability.
Environmental Factors:
Temperature and humidity can affect the playability of a violin. Extreme conditions can cause the instrument to
expand, contract, or go out of tune, which can impact playability.
Factors affecting the life of a violin
Quality of Materials and Craftsmanship:
Violins crafted with high-quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship tend to have longer lifespans. The choice of
tonewoods, varnish, and the precision of construction play a crucial role.
Environmental Conditions:
Humidity and temperature levels have a significant impact on a violin's longevity. Extreme fluctuations in humidity and
temperature can cause the wood to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracks and damage. Ideally, violins should be
stored in a stable environment with humidity levels between 40-60%.
Maintenance and Care:
Regular maintenance, including cleaning, string changes, and adjustments by a skilled luthier, can extend a violin's life.
Neglecting maintenance can lead to issues such as warped wood, loose parts, and diminished playability.
Maintenance and Care:
Regular maintenance, including cleaning, string changes, and adjustments by a skilled luthier, can extend a violin's life.
Neglecting maintenance can lead to issues such as warped wood, loose parts, and diminished playability.
String Selection and Maintenance:
The choice of strings can affect a violin's sound and longevity. High-quality strings that are well-maintained can help preserve
the instrument's tone. Old or corroded strings should be replaced promptly to prevent damage to the instrument.
String Selection and Maintenance:
The choice of strings can affect a violin's sound and longevity. High-quality strings that are well-maintained can help
preserve the instrument's tone. Old or corroded strings should be replaced promptly to prevent damage to the
instrument.
Playing Style and Technique:
The way a violin is played can impact its lifespan. Aggressive or improper playing techniques can exert excess pressure
on the instrument, potentially causing damage or wear.
Restoration and Repairs:
Skilled restorations and repairs can extend the life of a violin significantly. A luthier can address issues like cracks, open
seams, and worn-out components.
Storage Conditions:
Violins should be stored in a stable and safe environment when not in use. Avoid storing them in basements, attics, or
areas prone to temperature and humidity fluctuations.
Instrument Setup:
Proper setup and regular adjustments by a qualified luthier are crucial for the longevity of a violin. A well-maintained
soundpost, bridge, and neck can ensure that the instrument remains structurally stable and tonally consistent.
TASK ANALYSIS OF SELECTED
ACTIVITIES
Research plan
1. Setting objectives: Before beginning research/ interviews, a set number of goals must be targeted in
order to formulate a research strategy.
2. Identify our target audience: scouting locations and people would lead us to our research
participants.
3. Set contextual settings: before formulating a problem statement, we must review the parameters in
which our design brief is placed in. a rigid context would help narrow down participants and problem
statements.
4. Develop a list of questions for the survey so our research has a clear aim and direction.
5. Make use of common design research methods such as SWOT analysis, Trend analysis, contextual
interviews, customer journey mapping, data visualization, mind mapping etc
Pro users and intended users
Since violin makers and professional luthiers are limited in
availability, our intended users would be violin students, beginners,
teachers and musicians. However, we have denoted a portion of
our questions to the pro users such as stage performers, luthiers,
composers, collectors etc.
List of questions
What do you believe are the most crucial factors in crafting a high-quality violin with exceptional sound and
playability?
What are the key principles you emphasize when teaching violin to beginners and intermediate students?
Have you implemented any innovative or experimental techniques in your violin making?
What tools and materials are essential in your violin-making workshop?
Do you have a signature feature or design element that you included in your violins?
Have you collaborated with musicians to create custom violins tailored to their preferences?
Can you describe any artistic or decorative aspects of your violins' designs?
In your opinion, what makes a great violin, and what should potential buyers look for when choosing an
instrument?
What inspired you to choose the violin as your instrument?
What are some techniques or exercises you've found helpful as a beginner?
What have been the most significant challenges you've faced in learning the violin, and how have you worked to
overcome them?
Have you had the opportunity to perform in front of an audience, and if so, what was that experience like?
What types of wood are traditionally used in violin making, and how do you choose the wood for your violins?
What are the key factors in designing a violin to produce a particular sound quality or tonal character?
