Month: January 2017

In addition to quieting the output and dampening the sound, violin mutes add texture to a violin’s output. They can fashion oriental timbres that sound as reeds rustling in a marsh, and can form haunting textures that easily send chills up one’s spine.

They can be used for a variety of circumstances and areas, including hushed practice during a silent night, ambient layering during an orchestral piece, and isolated sections of solo repertoire. Combined with numerous ensemble members, they can serve as the underlying soil of a piece, or as an airy addition to a swaying movement.

I am often asked by non-music students, by people at lesson shops, or by passers at sidewalk corners, “What is that?” as a finger is pointed toward my instrument case.

My answer varies from one circumstance to the next: “It’s my business partner,” or, “A violin, it is,” or, “It’s a machine-gun,” are potential replies. I might, if the inquirer’s response suggests it, reveal the tool inside, which, lo and behold, is a violin.