Stringed Instrument Presentation for Middle School Students
by Brian Epp, violin restorer
The presentation is designed to be an enjoyable experience to help students in their quest for
musical excellence. Use of props, guessing games and audience participation will keep the
students engaged. Subjects can be chosen from the outline below that corresponds with the
teacher’s current curriculum. There will be a question and answer period after each topic if time
constraints allow.
I. Aspects of Stringed Instruments
A. Brief introduction
B. A question and answer period to assess the students’ knowledge and interests
C. Various violin props passed around or shown depending on the size of the group, to illustrate
lessons about structure and purpose of materials
a. The BIG Bridge Prop
b. Violin with removable parts
D. Brain Teaser Questions about history of shape and structure with flash cards
E. Sound lessons with props
a. Tapping a top table for tone
b. Bass bar
c. Sound post
d. Air cavity resonance
e. Bridge
II. The Big Bow
A. Prop used to show the parts of a bow
B. Why horse hair?
C. Proper care of your bow
III. How a violin is made
A. Props used to show some of the parts and tools used to build a violin
B. Basic visuals to show the steps of how a violin is made
IV. FAQ
A. Why do my pegs bind?
B. Why did my violin crack?
C. My bridge looks warped?
C. Carpenters glue or hide glue?
D. Temperature & humidity effects?
V. Audience Questions and Answers
Brian Epp / Artisan Violin Restoration
13 High Street . Bethel . CT 06801
203.794.1805
artisanviolin@bsiweb.net
http://www.artisanviolin.com
©2006