Blogs

What new products just arrived at Shar Music? Recent arrivals include Jargar Eccentric violin and cello string sets, Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Neo violin strings, a Leatherwood silk chinrest cover, a D’Addario rechargeable tuner, Elgar’s Salut d’Amour for viola, a BAM Bonbon wheeled cello case, and Leatherwood bass amber rosin. Each brings practical improvements in tone, comfort, or reliability for string players.New tools regularly arrive in the Shar workshop to help musicians play with more comfort, confidence, and color. This collection focuses on fresh string technology, travel-ready protection, and thoughtful accessories that make daily practice and performance smoother. Let’s take a closer look. What makes the Jargar Eccentric violin strings different? Jargar has earned its reputation through stability and clarity. The Jargar Eccentric Violin String Set introduces a modern response that speaks quickly under the bow while keeping a centered, focused tone. Clean articulation. Consistent pitch. A familiar feel with a fresh edge. View product:https://www.sharmusic.com/products/jargar-eccentric-violin-string-set-4-4-size-medium-gauge How do the Jargar Eccentric cello strings perform? Cellists get the same Eccentric design approach. The Jargar Eccentric Cello String Set responds quickly, maintains pitch stability through long rehearsals, and projects with a clear, balanced voice. If your current set feels slow or unfocused, this is a noticeable step forward. View product:https://www.sharmusic.com/products/jargar-eccentric-cello-string-set-4-4-size-medium-gauge Who are Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Neo violin strings best for? Players who want power with control. The Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Neo Violin String Set refines the classic Evah sound with improved response and tonal flexibility. Brilliant when pushed. Expressive when played softly. A natural fit for soloists, auditions, and advanced study. View product:https://www.sharmusic.com/products/pirastro-evah-pirazzi-neo-violin-string-set-4-4-size-medium-gauge Why use a mulberry silk chinrest cover? Because comfort matters more than most players admit. The Leatherwood Mulberry Silk Chinrest Cover adds a soft, breathable layer between skin and instrument. It reduces irritation, manages moisture, and keeps chinrests cleaner over time. Small upgrade. Big difference in long practice sessions. View product:https://www.sharmusic.com/products/leatherwood-mulberry-silk-chinrest-cover What is the benefit of a rechargeable tuner? No more spare batteries rattling in your case. The D’Addario Eclipse Rechargeable Tuner offers fast tracking, a bright display, and dependable accuracy. Charge it once and it is ready for rehearsals and performances. View product:https://www.sharmusic.com/products/daddario-eclipse-rechargeable-tuner Why add Elgar’s Salut d’Amour to a viola library? Some music never goes out of style. This newly edited Salut d’Amour for Viola and Piano offers clean engraving and a practical layout that makes rehearsal smoother for both players. A lyrical showpiece suited for recitals, weddings, and expressive study. View product:https://www.sharmusic.com/products/elgar-edward-salut-damour-opus-12-viola-and-piano-edited-by-fine-international-music-co What makes the BAM Bonbon Hightech cello case stand out? Protection with mobility. The BAM Bonbon Hightech Cello Case with Wheels is lightweight, impact resistant, and travel friendly. It keeps your cello safe while saving your shoulders and back when moving through schools, sidewalks, and parking lots. View product:https://www.sharmusic.com/products/bam-bonbon-hightech-cello-case-with-wheels How does Leatherwood Bass Amber Rosin feel under the bow? The Leatherwood Bass Amber Rosin 50 Blend delivers balanced grip without excess dust. Smooth pull. Clean articulation. Consistent feel even in changing weather. A dependable daily rosin for students through professionals. View product:https://www.sharmusic.com/products/leatherwood-bass-amber-rosin-50-blend A Fresh Start for Your Sound New arrivals are more than new products. They are new possibilities. A clearer tone. A more comfortable setup. Easier travel. A piece of music that brings inspiration back into the room. If you are ready to explore what fits your instrument and playing style, Shar’s luthiers and string specialists are always available to help with setup guidance, string matching, and honest advice. Tradition built this shop. Musicians keep it alive. Your next great sound might already be waiting on the shelf.

Jacqueline du Pré wasn’t just a remarkable cellist, she was a master of expression. This blog explores what today’s students can learn from her intense bow control, warm tone, and emotional depth. From choosing the right strings to studying her legendary Elgar performance, we offer insights and product recommendations to help serious young musicians grow in both skill and soul.

Learning a bowed string instrument is a journey filled with excitement, challenge, and growth - but even the most enthusiastic young musicians hit a wall sometimes. Maybe your child suddenly dreads practice, wants to skip lessons, or seems bored with their violin, viola, cello, or bass.

A new year is the perfect moment to commit to something meaningful. For many students and families, that means learning an instrument in 2026 as part of a New Year’s resolution music goal. Whether the plan is joining a school orchestra, playing in weekend jam sessions, or exploring one of the best musical hobbies for beginners, choosing the right beginner string instrument is the first and most important step toward long-term success.

Finding the right holiday gift for a string player doesn't have to mean stretching your budget. Whether you're shopping for a beginner who lights up at every new accessory or an advancing player who knows exactly what they like, there are plenty of gifts under $100 that feel thoughtful, practical, and genuinely useful. Shar Music has gathered a handful of musician-trusted favorites - bows, cases, strings, and accessories that players reach for daily.

If you enjoyed the first round of holiday music activities, this next set keeps the momentum going. December may be packed with distractions, but it’s also the perfect time to spark creativity and strengthen musical fundamentals. From composition projects to festive practice games and cozy performance moments, these ideas help young string players stay curious, motivated, and connected to their music. Whether you’re teaching in the studio or supporting practice at home, these activities bring joy and structure to a busy season.

The holiday season is a perfect time to keep music students engaged with fun holiday activities that spark creativity and community. From collaborative family duets to festive practice games and mini-ensemble challenges, these holiday-themed string activities help violin, viola, cello, and bass students stay motivated while building skills. Teachers and parents will find simple, interactive ideas to support beginner and intermediate string players all season long.

A leaning bridge, a buzzing sound, a tired tone, these are all red flags string teachers can’t afford to miss. This blog post helps you catch common violin, viola, cello, and bass issues before they interrupt your classroom. You’ll learn what to look for, what to teach students, and when to call in a professional. Whether you're running a school orchestra or private studio, this guide is for you.

Keeping school instruments in top shape doesn’t have to be complicated or time consuming. In this guide, string teachers will find easy-to-teach daily routines that help students protect their violins, violas, cellos, and basses from wear and tear. From bow care to shoulder rest reminders, you’ll learn how to build good habits that save rehearsal time and prevent costly damage all while helping students take pride in their instruments.