There are a few reasons why older violins are often said to sound better than newer ones.
- The wood. The wood used to make older violins is often of higher quality than the wood used to make newer violins. This is because the older wood has had more time to mature and dry out, which gives it a richer, more resonant sound.
- The craftsmanship. The craftsmanship of older violins is often superior to the craftsmanship of newer violins. This is because older violins were made by master luthiers who had many years of experience. The older violins were made with more care and attention to detail, which results in a better sound.
- The age. The age of a violin can also affect its sound. As a violin ages, the wood continues to dry out and the varnish continues to mellow. This can give the violin a richer, more mature sound.
Of course, not all older violins sound better than newer violins. There are many factors that can affect the sound of a violin, including the quality of the wood, the craftsmanship, and the age. However, in general, older violins are often said to have a better sound than newer violins.
Here are some additional reasons why older violins might sound better:
- The strings. The strings used on older violins are often made from natural materials, such as gut or catgut. These strings have a warmer, more mellow sound than the synthetic strings that are often used on newer violins.
- The player. The player can also affect the sound of a violin. A skilled player who knows how to bring out the best in a violin can make it sound even better.
Ultimately, the sound of a violin is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the brighter, more immediate sound of a newer violin, while others prefer the richer, more mellow sound of an older violin. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best way to decide is to try out both types of violins and see which one you prefer.
