Fun & Entertainment
Old vs. New Violins: Can You Hear the Difference?
We compared old and new violins to see if we could really hear the difference. Can you?
Educational Corner
Carbon Fiber vs Wood Bows
Can Shar Music's own staff hear the difference between the two?
LATEST FROM THE
Article Library

Carbon Fiber vs. Wood Bows: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between carbon fiber and wood bows comes down to what matters most in your playing. Carbon fiber offers durability, consistency, and excellent value, making it ideal for students and musicians on the go, while pernambuco wood delivers the warm, complex tone prized by classical performers. This guide breaks down the key differences to help you find the bow that best matches your sound, style, and budget.

How to Groove on Strings: Tracy Silverman's Strum Bowing Method
Discover how Tracy Silverman’s Strum Bowing Method helps string players unlock groove, rhythm, and contemporary style. By treating the bow like a guitar pick, using accents and “ghosted” strokes, you can transform traditional technique into dynamic, groove-driven playing that brings new life to any performance.

The Ultimate Violin String Comparison Guide
Finding the right violin strings can completely change how your instrument sounds and feels. This guide breaks down core materials, tone, and top string options so you can choose with confidence.
LATEST FROM THE
Video Library

Shoulder Rest or Not? What Every Violinist and Violist Should Know
Should violinists and violists use a shoulder rest? Explore the pros, cons, and history of this modern accessory to make the best choice for your body, style, and sound.

Interviews
Excellence in Music: An Interview with Laurie Niles
We recently had the opportunity to sit down and chat with Laurie Niles from Violinist.com during the 2024 ASTAxSuzuki Convention.

Poetjournalist-in-Residence
Aaron Dworkin's "Musicality"
"Musicality" by Poetjournalist-in-Residence, Aaron Dworkin encompasses the nuance that exists in the balance between technique and soul.






