Two questions about strings

[adrianallan]

Two fairly obvious questions, but important nonetheless.

1. When is it best to use divisi strings and what are benefits of it in a passage of music - does it enrich the harmony, does the divisi lower the overall volume level of the section ?

2. When is it best to use muted strings. Is the effect more than just "quieter" is there a common instance where muted strings tend to be used ?

I have some thoughts on the above, but would like them clarifying

Thanks

[Kevin]

Aug 30, 2010 9:25:29 GMT adrianallan said:

Two fairly obvious questions, but important nonetheless.

1. When is it best to use divisi strings and what are benefits of it in a passage of music - does it enrich the harmony, does the divisi lower the overall volume level of the section ?

If you only have 4 main sections and want more harmony/extra lines, then divisi is an option. If it worries that the dynamic might be compromised, then change it for the duration.

2. When is it best to use muted strings. Is the effect more than just "quieter" is there a common instance where muted strings tend to be used ?

Muting not only quietens the strings it also affects to quality of the tone. It becomes quite ethereal! The small mute prevents the bridge from vibratung as much.