Top 10 Questions for Violin Repairer Interview

1. What are the common repairs that you perform on violins?

As a Violin Repairer, I regularly encounter a range of repairs, including:

• Structural repairs: This involves fixing cracks, breaks, and other damage to the instrument’s body, neck, or scroll.
• Refinishing: Restoring the violin’s finish to its original condition or changing its appearance.
• Adjustments: Making necessary adjustments to the instrument’s soundpost, bridge, and pegs to enhance its playability and sound quality.
• String replacement and maintenance: Installing new strings, adjusting string tension, and performing routine string maintenance.

2. Describe the process you would follow to repair a crack in a violin’s top plate.

Assessing the Damage

• Examine the crack carefully to determine its size, shape, and any other damage associated with it.
• Assess the type of wood and its condition to choose the appropriate repair method.

Preparing the Crack

• Clean the crack and remove any dirt or debris.
• If necessary, widen the crack slightly to create a space for the glue.

Applying Glue and Clamping

• Apply a thin layer of appropriate glue to the crack’s surfaces.
• Align the crack surfaces precisely and clamp them securely.

Curing and Finishing

• Allow the glue to cure completely as directed by the manufacturer.
• Remove the clamps and clean any excess glue.
• Retouch the area around the repair to match the surrounding finish.

3. What factors should be considered when selecting the type of glue to use in violin repair?

When selecting the glue in violin repair, the following factors must be considered:

• Strength: The glue must provide a strong and durable bond to ensure the repair’s longevity.
• Reversible: The glue should be reversible to allow for future adjustments or repairs if necessary.
• Viscosity: Depending on the repair method, the glue should have an appropriate viscosity to fill gaps effectively and prevent excess seepage.
• Toxicity: The glue should be non-toxic to minimize the risk to both the violin and the repairer.
• Compatibility: The glue must be compatible with the wood type and the existing finish of the violin.

4. How do you determine the appropriate tension for the strings on a violin?

To determine the appropriate tension for violin strings, I follow these steps:

• Consider the string material and type: Different materials and gauges have specific tension requirements.
• Check the manufacturer’s recommendations: String manufacturers usually provide guidelines for string tension.
• Adjust the tuning pegs gradually: Tune each string slightly higher than the desired pitch and then gradually lower it.
• Test the pitch and listen for the desired sound quality: The tension is correct when the string produces a clear, resonant tone without buzzing or wolf tones.
• Repeat the process for all strings and ensure they have balanced tension.

5. What methods can be used to adjust the sound quality of a violin?

There are several techniques that can be employed to adjust the sound quality of a violin, including:

• Soundpost adjustment: Moving the soundpost within the violin can influence the instrument’s tone and projection.
• Bridge adjustment: Changing the height and shape of the bridge can alter the string tension and sound quality.
• String choice and tension: Different strings and tension levels can produce distinct tonal characteristics.
• Chinrest and shoulder rest adjustment: These accessories can affect the player’s comfort and the violin’s resonance.
• Bow selection and technique: The choice of bow and bowing technique can significantly impact the sound produced.

6. How do you identify and repair a wolf tone on a violin?

To identify a wolf tone, I play different notes on the violin and listen for a pronounced, undesirable resonance. The wolf tone is typically a note or two below the violin’s open strings.

To repair a wolf tone, I use a wolf eliminator: a small, adjustable device that is placed inside the violin. By adjusting the wolf eliminator’s weight and position, I can counteract the resonance and minimize the wolf tone.

7. Describe the process of varnishing a violin.

Preparing the Violin

• Clean the violin thoroughly to remove any dirt, oil, or residue.
• Sand the surface smoothly, starting with coarse sandpaper and gradually progressing to finer grits.
• Apply a thin layer of ground (a mixture of pigment and varnish) to seal the wood.

Applying the Varnish

• Apply thin, even coats of varnish using a brush or swab.
• Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
• Build up the layers gradually, allowing the varnish to penetrate the wood.

Polishing

• Once the final coat is dry, polish the violin using a soft cloth and polishing compound.
• Start with a coarse polish and gradually switch to finer polishes to achieve a high gloss.

8. What tools and techniques are used to shape the scroll of a violin?

Shaping the scroll of a violin requires specialized tools and techniques, including:

• Scroll knife: A sharp, curved knife used to carve the basic shape of the scroll.
• Gouges: Chisels with curved blades used to refine the scroll’s contours.
• Scrapers: Used to smooth and refine the scroll’s surface.
• Files and sandpaper: For detailed shaping and finishing.
• Clamps: To hold the scroll in place during carving and shaping.

9. How do you ensure the accuracy and precision of your repairs?

To ensure accuracy and precision in my repairs, I follow these principles:

• Careful examination: I thoroughly examine the violin to identify and assess the damage.
• Precise measurements: I use calipers and other tools to measure and record dimensions and angles.
• Template and guides: I create custom templates and guides when necessary to ensure consistency and accuracy.
• Quality tools: I invest in high-quality tools that are specifically designed for violin repair.
• Regular calibration: I regularly calibrate my tools to maintain their precision.

10. Describe a challenging repair you have undertaken and how you approached it.

One memorable repair was a violin that had suffered a severe neck break. The neck was completely detached from the body, and there was significant damage to the surrounding wood.

My approach was as follows:

• Assess the damage and develop a repair plan.
• Carefully remove the broken pieces and clean the damaged area.
• Craft a new neck and ensure a precise fit with the body.
• Apply glue and clamp the neck in place, aligning it meticulously.
• Reinforce the repair with additional wood and glue.

The repair required patience, precision, and attention to detail. I was able to restore the violin to its original condition, and the customer was extremely satisfied with the outcome.

A Violin Repairer is an expert who is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and restoring violins, violas, and cellos. The key responsibilities include:

1. Instrument Inspection and Diagnosis

Conducting thorough inspections of instruments to identify any damage, cracks, or wear.

• Examining the instrument’s body, neck, fingerboard, pegs, and strings.
• Assessing the severity of damage and determining the appropriate repair techniques.

2. Repairs and Restoration

Performing intricate repairs and restorations to damaged instruments.

• Repairing cracks, breaks, and dents in the body or neck.
• Replacing or repairing fingerboards, pegs, and strings.
• Conducting adjustments, such as fine-tuning the soundpost and bridge.

3. Instrument Maintenance

Providing regular maintenance services to preserve the condition of instruments.

• Cleaning and polishing the instrument’s surface.
• Lubricating moving parts to prevent wear and tear.
• Inspecting and replacing strings as needed.

4. Custom Modifications and Enhancements

Making custom modifications and enhancements to improve the playability and sound quality of instruments.

• Adjusting the neck angle or bridge height for optimal player comfort.
• Installing new pickups or other electronic components.
• Designing and crafting custom instrument parts.

To ace an interview for a Violin Repairer position, it’s essential to prepare thoroughly. Here are some tips:

1. Research the Company and Industry

Familiarize yourself with the company’s history, services, and reputation in the industry. Research the latest advancements in violin repair techniques and materials.

• Visit the company’s website and social media pages.
• Read industry publications and attend trade shows.

2. Highlight Your Skills and Experience

Emphasize your technical skills, including your proficiency in diagnosing and repairing violins, violas, and cellos. Quantify your experience whenever possible.

• Describe specific projects you’ve worked on and the results you achieved.
• Mention any apprenticeships or certifications you’ve obtained.

3. Demonstrate Your Passion for Music

Convey your genuine love for music and understanding of the importance of violins in musical performance.

• Share your own experiences playing or listening to violins.
• Discuss how violin repair contributes to the preservation of musical heritage.

4. Prepare to Discuss Your Qualifications

Be prepared to explain why you’re the ideal candidate for the position. Highlight your unique skills, knowledge, and experience that match the company’s needs.

• Review the job description carefully and identify the key requirements.
• Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to meet those requirements.

5. Ask Insightful Questions

Asking well-thought-out questions at the end of the interview shows that you’re engaged and interested in the position. Prepare questions that demonstrate your interest in the company, industry, and specific responsibilities of the role.

• Inquire about the company’s approach to violin repair and restoration.
• Ask about opportunities for professional development and growth.