5 String Fiddle

[Skippy]

So what is the fifth string on a 5 string fiddle? Just curious :)

[matt the fiddler]

a c a fifth below the g - so it pretty much has viola range

[Thilefan]

My friend is going to get one of those soon. Her dad promised to get her one if she grew out her hair (Pretty good deal I'd say). Is it a lot different to play a 5-string as opposed to a 4-String??
Robin

[fidlmaker]

Hello Thilefan,

Playing a 5-string is a pretty easy transition from a 4-string. The interval between the G and C is a fifth just like all the other strings. The one I made for myself has a slightly wider than standard fingerboard 'cause of my big biscuit mits. The one I made for Sara has a standard width neck and fingerboard with standard string spacing at the nut and bridge. The E and G end up pretty close to the edges of the fingerboard, but most players don't have a problem with that. Because the 4 normal strings are shifted a bit to the treble side, the players bowing position has to shift accordingly. Most players (including myself) find themselves bowing the wrong string at first. Most 4-string players trying a 5 for the first time start getting the feel of it within minutes and can be pretty proficient within a matter of days. Ear players adapt almost immediately because of the familiar interval of the new string. Paper Trained fiddlers may find it a little more daunting, particularly because there is precious little, if any, music transcribed for 5-strings, and not too many fiddle tunes written with the viola in mind.

Hope all of this rambling is of some help. Any other 5-string players out there? (By the way, if you're looking for a real good 5-string violin, I know where you can find one.)

Regards,
Martin (fidlmaker) Brunkalla

[Thilefan]

Thanks for all the info! I am currently looking for a fiddle...5 string would be very cool. How much do you sell them for? I would like to get one, but they are SO expensive...I was thinking about just making one. However, I would rather just buy one from you if I can.

Robin