Wondering how thick a guitar pick should be for your playing style? The thickness of a guitar pick influences tone, control, and feel. Here’s a guide to understanding pick thickness and finding the best option for your sound. How Thick Should a Guitar Pick Be? Guitar pick thickness varies by playing style: thin picks (0.45-0.70mm) suit strumming, medium picks (0.70-0.85mm) balance strumming and picking, while thick picks (0.85mm+) offer control for lead playing. Choosing the right pick thickness affects tone, flexibility, and comfort, so match it to your music style. 5 Things That All Pro Guitarists Know About Picks 1. Guitar Pick Thicknesses Guitar picks typically come in three main thicknesses: thin (0.45-0.70mm), medium (0.70-0.85mm), and thick (0.85mm+). What are the standard guitar pick thicknesses? These categories help guitarists choose the right flexibility and sound response based on their playing needs. 2. Thin Picks for Strumming Thin picks are flexible and produce a lighter, softer sound, making them ideal for strumming chords. Are thin picks good for strumming? Yes—they’re perfect for acoustic guitar and rhythm playing where a smooth, balanced tone is desired. 3. Medium Picks for Versatile Playing Medium picks offer a balance of flexibility and control, making them a great choice for beginners. They work well for both strumming and basic picking, allowing new players to explore different styles. What is the best pick thickness for beginners? Medium picks (around 0.70-0.85mm) provide versatility without being too rigid or too flimsy. 4. Thick Picks for Lead Playing and Precision Thick picks offer better control for precise picking and powerful lead playing. They produce a fuller sound and are less likely to bend, which helps with accuracy. Why are thick picks used for lead guitar? For solos and intricate picking, thick picks (0.85mm+) provide the stability needed for a confident, punchy sound. 5. Experimenting to Find Your Ideal Thickness Choosing the right pick thickness is personal—experiment with different picks to find what feels best. How do you choose the right guitar pick thickness? Try various thicknesses to see which one fits your style and gives you the tone and control you want. Check Price on Amazon

Ever wondered why your violin bow hair keeps breaking? Bow hair breakage is common, but it often points to a few underlying issues. Here are the top five reasons for broken bow hair and how to keep your bow in good shape. Why Is My Violin Bow Hair Breaking? Violin bow hair breaks due to factors like improper tension, rough playing technique, humidity changes, old bow hair, or rosin buildup. To prevent breakage, regularly check bow tension, maintain a gentle technique, store the bow in stable humidity, and rehair it when needed. Top 5 Reasons Why Your Violin Bow Hair Is Breaking 1. Improper Bow Tension Over-tightening the bow stretches the hair, making it prone to breakage. Does bow tension cause hair to break? Yes—using excessive tension can weaken the hair, so always loosen the bow after playing to maintain its flexibility. 2. Rough Playing Technique Aggressive or rough bowing can wear down the hair faster. Can playing style affect bow hair? Absolutely—a heavy hand or excessive pressure on the strings can stress the bow hair, causing it to break more frequently. 3. Humidity and Temperature Changes Bow hair is sensitive to humidity, expanding in damp conditions and contracting in dry air, which can cause breakage. Does humidity affect violin bow hair? Yes—extreme changes can make the hair brittle or too tight, so store your bow in a stable environment. 4. Old or Worn-Out Bow Hair Bow hair loses elasticity over time, especially with frequent use. How often should you rehair a violin bow? Generally, every 6-12 months is recommended to ensure the hair is in good condition and less likely to break. 5. Excessive Rosin Buildup Applying too much rosin creates stickiness and stiffness in the hair, which can lead to breakage. Can rosin cause bow hair to break? Yes—too much rosin makes the hair brittle, so apply only a thin layer as needed. D'Addario KRDD Kaplan Premium Rosin with Case Check Price on Amazon

Ever wondered why your violin bow bounces unexpectedly while you play? Bow bouncing can disrupt your sound and make it harder to maintain control. Here are the top five reasons for a bouncing bow and some easy solutions to help you play more smoothly. Why Does My Violin Bow Bounce? A bouncing violin bow is often caused by too much tension, improper bowing technique, uneven pressure, incorrect grip, or nervousness. Adjusting these factors can help stabilize your bow for a smoother, more controlled performance. Top 5 Reasons Why Your Violin Bow Is Bouncing 1. Excessive Bow Tension If your violin bow bounces, it may be due to excessive tension. When the bow hair is too tight, it loses flexibility and becomes more prone to bouncing. Try loosening the bow slightly to see if it improves stability and reduces unwanted movement. 2. Improper Bowing Technique Sometimes, your violin bow bounces because of poor technique, such as inconsistent speed or angle. Beginners often struggle with this, as controlling bow movement takes practice. To fix this, focus on steady, even strokes and keep the bow at a consistent angle relative to the strings. 3. Uneven Pressure on the Bow Applying uneven pressure can cause the bow to bounce, especially if there’s extra weight on the bow during certain parts of the stroke. If your violin bow bounces, try practicing with even, balanced pressure along the entire bow to help reduce bouncing. 4. Incorrect Bow Grip A poor bow grip can make it difficult to control the bow smoothly. If your violin bow bounces, check your grip to ensure it’s relaxed but secure. Keeping a loose, flexible hold allows for better control and prevents the bow from bouncing during play. 5. Nervousness or Tension in the Hand Anxiety or tension in the hand and fingers can make your violin bow bounce, especially during performances. When players are nervous, they may grip the bow too tightly, leading to unwanted movement. Practicing deep breathing or relaxation techniques can help you stay calm and keep your bowing steady. Final Tip: Reducing Bow Bounce for Better Control When your violin bow bounces, adjusting factors like bow tension, technique, pressure, grip, and relaxation can make a big difference. With these fixes, you’ll have a smoother, more controlled bow stroke and a better overall sound.

Need to know how to tune a violin without a tuner? The violin strings require precise tuning for the best sound, and tuning by ear or with other reference instruments can help you achieve accuracy without a digital tuner. Here are five effective methods to tune your violin accurately, without needing a tuner. How to Tune a Violin Without a Tuner To tune a violin without a tuner, you can use reference pitches from a piano, a tuning app, pitch pipes, another instrument, or harmonics. These methods offer accurate tuning references to adjust your violin strings to the correct notes—G, D, A, E—from lowest to highest. Top 5 Ways of Tuning A Violin Without A Tuner 1. Using a Piano or Digital Piano as a Reference A piano offers a steady reference pitch to help tune your violin strings (G, D, A, E). Start by matching the A string on your violin to the A note on the piano, then tune the remaining strings by ear. If a real piano isn’t handy, an online piano or a piano app on your phone can work just as well for matching pitches. If you're wondering how to tune a violin without a tuner , using a piano or digital option provides reliable tuning for each string. Visit Musicca 2. Using a Tuning App Violin tuning apps provide exact pitches for each string, making them an easy alternative to a physical tuner. Some of the best apps include Pano Tuner , Tunable , and n-Track Tuner . These apps allow you to select each violin string and show the correct pitch, making it simple to match your violin’s strings to the standard G, D, A, and E notes. 3. Tuning with Pitch Pipes Pitch pipes are another convenient tool that provide exact pitches for each violin string. Simply blow into the pitch pipe to hear the note, then match each violin string to it. How to tune a violin without a tuner  becomes easy with pitch pipes, as they allow you to tune each string individually by ear. 13 Tone Pitch Pipe Check Price on Amazon 4. Using Another Instrument as a Guide If you have a guitar or another violin on hand, you can use it as a reference for tuning. The lowest-pitched string on a guitar, the low E, matches the violin’s highest string, the E string. Make sure the other instrument is in tune, then match your violin strings to its notes. This method is especially useful when tuning to other musicians. 5. Tuning using a Tuner Why not invest in a tuner? They’re affordable, save time, and greatly increase the accuracy of your violin tuning. Tuning by ear or through other methods requires a lot of skill and experience, which can be challenging for beginners. Setting yourself up for success means ensuring your violin is always perfectly in tune, which will improve your intonation and instantly make you sound more professional. Look for a tuner that clips onto your violin for easy and precise tuning every time. Professional Violin Tuner Check Price on Amazon

Is your trumpet not making a sound when you try to play? This issue can be frustrating, especially if you're unsure of the cause. Here are the top five reasons your trumpet might be silent and how to troubleshoot each one for a quick fix. Why Is My Trumpet Not Making a Sound? If a trumpet isn’t making sound, common causes include misaligned valves, lips not buzzing, a need for a thorough cleaning, debris in the mouthpiece, or low air pressure. Addressing these problems can restore sound and improve playability. Top 5 Fixes For A Trumpet Not Making Sound 1. Misaligned Valves If the valves are slightly out of place, they won’t allow air to pass through correctly. When your trumpet isn’t making sound, check that each valve is properly aligned with the guide marks. This means that the number on the gold part of the valve is facing towards the mouthpiece. 2. Lips Not Buzzing A common reason your trumpet makes no sound is that only air is passing through the mouthpiece without creating a buzz. If your lips aren’t buzzing, the trumpet can’t produce sound. Practice making a buzzing sound on the mouthpiece alone, ensuring steady vibration, then try producing the same buzz while playing on the trumpet. 3. Your Trumpet Needs a Bath If your trumpet isn’t making sound, it might be due to dirt and buildup blocking the airflow. Giving the trumpet a bath can clear out any debris or grime that’s preventing sound. Use lukewarm water with a mild soap, soaking and gently cleaning each part to remove blockages, then rinse and dry thoroughly before reassembling. Trumpet Cleaning & Care Kit Check Price on Amazon 4. Debris in the Mouthpiece A blocked mouthpiece is another common reason your trumpet isn’t making a sound. Remove the mouthpiece and inspect it for dust, dirt, or any obstruction. Cleaning it thoroughly with a mouthpiece brush can often solve the issue and restore sound. 5. Insufficient Air Pressure Low air pressure can prevent sound production in a trumpet. If your trumpet isn’t making sound, try taking a deeper breath and blowing with stronger, more consistent air pressure. Trumpets require steady airflow to produce sound, so focus on maintaining a controlled breath throughout your play.

Many aspiring violinists wonder if they can learn the violin on their own. With countless online resources and tutorial videos, it’s tempting to go solo. But how effective is self-teaching the violin compared to traditional lessons? Self-Teaching the Violin Self-teaching the violin can be effective for learning basics and practicing techniques, but without professional guidance, mastering complex techniques and achieving proper form can be challenging. 5 Challenges With Teaching Yourself The Violin 1. Accessibility of Online Resources Self-teaching the violin has become more feasible thanks to a wealth of online tutorials, sheet music, and instructional videos. Beginners can find step-by-step guidance on basic techniques like finger placement, bowing, and scales, which are essential to get started. However, relying on these resources alone can lead to gaps in learning, as many nuances of violin playing are hard to convey through videos alone. 2. Developing Proper Technique Without Feedback One of the biggest challenges of self-teaching the violin is mastering technique without immediate feedback. Instructors are essential for correcting posture, hand positioning, and bowing angles, which are difficult to self-assess. Missteps in technique can go unnoticed when learning alone, potentially leading to bad habits that are hard to unlearn later on. 3. Ear Training is Difficult to Develop Alone The violin requires finely tuned ear training to recognize intonation and pitch accuracy. While online tools and tuning apps can help, a teacher’s trained ear is often more reliable for early learners. Instructors can guide students in developing ear training and adjusting intonation, which is challenging for beginners trying to self-teach. Check Price on Amazon 4. Motivation and Practice Discipline Self-teaching the violin requires strong motivation and discipline. Without structured lessons and regular feedback, it’s easy to lose momentum or fall into inefficient practice routines. A teacher can provide encouragement and keep students accountable, while solo learners need to find creative ways to stay motivated, such as setting practice goals or recording progress. 5. Risk of Plateauing Many self-taught violinists find that they can learn basic scales and songs but struggle to progress beyond a certain level. Advanced techniques, musical expression, and understanding of complex pieces often require professional guidance. Without a teacher’s insights, it can be difficult for self-taught players to overcome technical barriers or refine their playing style.

"Big Butter and Egg Man" is a classic jazz standard written by the legendary trumpeter and composer Louis Armstrong in 1926. During this time, Armstrong was a rising star with the Fletcher Henderson Orchestra, and jazz was evolving into a major genre in American music. The song is a playful tune that humorously describes a wealthy man who indulges in extravagant living. Its catchy melody and fun lyrics made it an instant hit, and it remains a staple in jazz repertoires today. You can find "Big Butter and Egg Man Trumpet Sheet Music, PDF, and Backing Track to practice and experience the essence of this iconic piece. Big Butter And Egg Man Trumpet Sheet Music, pdf And Backing Track Big Butter and Egg Man Backing Track Test your skills while playing "Big Butter and Egg Man" to this professional backing track. With its lively rhythm and catchy melody, this track allows you to experience the energy of the original Louis Armstrong hit while practicing your trumpet or improvisation. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, it’s a fun and challenging way to enhance your jazz performance. Analyzing Louis Armstrong's Mastery in 'Big Butter and Egg Man'" Listening to the original "Big Butter and Egg Man" by Louis Armstrong is a valuable experience for trumpet players. Pay attention to Armstrong’s impeccable articulation and controlled wide vibrato, which showcase his technical mastery and expressive style. Marvel at the power and precision in his upper register, offering a lesson in how to achieve both brilliance and clarity in challenging passages—an essential skill for any trumpet player.

Curious about how to trumpet growl and add that edgy, gritty sound to your playing? The trumpet growl is a unique technique used to create a raspy, intense tone often heard in jazz, rock, and blues. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you master the trumpet growl effect. How to Trumpet Growl To trumpet growl, start by producing a steady note, add a vocal growl in your throat, practice humming while playing, maintain a consistent air stream, and experiment with pitch and intensity. With these steps, you’ll create the bold, gritty sound of a trumpet growl. 5 Easy Steps To Learn How To Growl On The Trumpet 1. Start with a Steady Note Before adding the growl, play a steady note on the trumpet. Choose a mid-range note to start with, as it’s easier to control. Focus on producing a strong, clear tone—this stable foundation is essential for achieving a quality growl effect when layered with the growling sound. 2. Add a Vocal Growl in Your Throat The growl effect is created by making a vocal growl sound in your throat while playing the note. If you’re wondering how to trumpet growl , try lightly growling in the back of your throat as if you’re imitating a growling animal. Combine this with your trumpet tone, keeping the air steady. 3. Practice Humming While You Play Another approach is to hum while you’re playing a note, which can also produce a growling effect. Experiment with humming at different pitches to see which sound complements your trumpet tone best. This technique requires practice to balance the humming and trumpet sound without losing control of your air stream. 4. Maintain a Consistent Air Stream A steady air stream is key to a successful trumpet growl. Keep your airflow strong and even as you add the growl, as wavering air pressure can disrupt the effect. If you’re still learning how to trumpet growl , focus on building lung strength and breath control to sustain the growl without straining. 5. Experiment with Pitch and Intensity Once you’ve mastered the basics, play around with the pitch and intensity of your growl. Higher pitches and stronger growls can add intensity, while softer growls on lower notes create a subtler effect. This experimentation helps you make the trumpet growl your own and use it effectively in various styles of music.

Want to learn how to double tongue on the trumpet for quicker, cleaner articulation? Double tonguing is a technique that lets you play rapid notes with ease by alternating between two syllables. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you master double tonguing and speed up your playing. How to Double Tongue on Trumpet To double tongue on trumpet, start with “T-K” syllables, practice slow and clear articulation, gradually increase speed, incorporate the technique into scales, and maintain consistent airflow. These steps will help you achieve faster, more precise articulation. 5 Steps To Learn How To Double Tongue On Trumpet 1. Start with “T-K” Syllables Double tonguing involves alternating between “T” and “K” syllables to create a faster articulation. Begin by practicing these syllables separately—“T” at the front of the tongue and “K” at the back. If you’re learning how to double tongue on trumpet , this “T-K” pattern will become the foundation for fast, clear notes. 2. Practice Slow and Clear Articulation Start by double tonguing slowly, focusing on a clean transition between “T” and “K” sounds. Avoid rushing; aim for precision and clarity with each articulation. Practicing slowly helps build muscle memory, ensuring each note is clear as you increase speed. 3. Gradually Increase Speed Once you feel comfortable with the “T-K” pattern, gradually speed up your articulation. Use a metronome to increase tempo in small increments, keeping your articulation clean. Building speed over time is essential to master how to double tongue on trumpet  without sacrificing note clarity. 4. Incorporate Double Tonguing into Scales and Exercises To make double tonguing feel natural, incorporate it into scales, arpeggios, and exercises. This will help you transition the technique from isolated practice to real playing. Practicing scales with double tonguing strengthens consistency and prepares you for faster, more complex pieces. 5. Maintain Consistent Airflow A steady airflow is key for smooth double tonguing. If your air pressure drops, the sound can become choppy. When working on how to double tongue on trumpet , focus on keeping a consistent air stream to support each articulation. This helps you achieve even, flowing notes at any speed. Best Double Tonguing Exercises The most famous trumpet technique book, The Arban’s Complete Conservatory Method, contains the greatest collection of beginner and advanced double tonguing exercises. It's a must-have for any serious trumpeter as it literally covers everything you need to know about trumpet playing. Arban's Complete Conservatory Method Check price on Amazon

Ever wondered why singers use autotune? Autotune has become a staple in modern music production, helping artists achieve perfect pitch, create unique effects, and enhance their vocal performance. Here are the top five reasons why autotune is so popular among singers. Why Do Singers Use Autotune? Singers use autotune to correct pitch, add stylistic effects, streamline recording, ensure consistency in live performances, and experiment with vocal creativity. This tool helps enhance sound quality and allows artists to explore new musical styles. 4 Reasons Singers Use Autotune 1. Correcting Pitch Imperfections Autotune is primarily used to correct small pitch errors in a singer’s performance, ensuring every note is perfectly in tune. Even professional singers may have slight imperfections, and autotune smooths these out. If you’re wondering why singers use autotune , pitch correction is often the top reason, as it creates a polished, flawless sound. 2. Adding Stylistic Effects Many artists use autotune creatively to achieve unique vocal effects, such as the robotic sound popularized by artists like T-Pain. This effect can give a track a modern, electronic feel. Autotune’s versatility allows singers to experiment with vocal effects, adding distinct character to their sound. 3. Streamlining the Recording Process In the studio, autotune can save time by reducing the need for multiple takes. Instead of re-recording a section to correct minor pitch issues, autotune can adjust the pitch quickly. This efficiency is one reason why singers use autotune , especially in demanding recording sessions. 4. Ensuring Consistency in Live Performances Autotune is also used in live performances to help singers stay on pitch throughout the show. Performing live can be challenging, and autotune provides support, especially for complex songs or long tours where vocal fatigue may impact performance. This consistency is valuable for delivering a reliable live sound. Does Taylor Swift Use Autotune In Concert Taylor Swift primarily relies on her natural vocal abilities during live performances, often delivering songs without the aid of autotune. However, like many contemporary artists, she occasionally incorporates pre-recorded backing tracks and employs autotune selectively to enhance specific vocal effects or to maintain vocal consistency throughout her concerts. This approach allows her to balance the authenticity of live singing with the polished sound expected in large-scale performances. Is Lip Syncing And Autotune The Same Thing? No. Lip syncing is when a singer mouths the words without actually singing live, often using a pre-recorded track. Autotune, on the other hand, is a tool that smooths out a singer's pitch or adds special vocal effects, so the artist is still singing live, just with a little extra polish.

Selecting the right violin size is crucial for beginners, especially young learners. An improperly sized violin can make learning difficult and even lead to strain. Here’s how to choose the best size for comfort and playability. Choosing the Right Violin Size for Beginners and Children To choose the right violin size for beginners and children, measure the arm length from the neck to the middle of the palm. This measurement helps match them to the correct violin size for comfortable playing and proper technique. 1. Understanding Violin Sizes Violins come in a range of sizes, from the full-size (4/4) violin to smaller sizes like 1/8 and 1/16, designed for younger players. Generally, adults and teens use a full-size violin, while children may need smaller sizes based on their arm length. Using the correct size ensures that players can comfortably reach all parts of the instrument and develop proper technique. 2. Measuring Arm Length for Size Selection The standard method for determining violin size is measuring the arm. Have the student extend their left arm fully and measure from the neck to the middle of the palm. Compare this measurement to a sizing chart or reference guide to find the best match. For example, a child with an arm length of about 20 inches would typically fit a 1/4 size violin. 3. Common Violin Sizes and Age Ranges While every child is different, common guidelines can help match age and size: 1/16 size  – for children ages 3-5 1/8 size  – for ages 5-6 1/4 size  – for ages 6-7 1/2 size  – for ages 7-9 3/4 size  – for ages 9-11 4/4 size (full-size)  – typically for ages 11 and older, depending on arm length. These are approximate age ranges, and measuring is always recommended for accuracy. 4. Testing for Comfort and Playability Once a size is chosen, it’s essential to test it for comfort. When holding the violin, the player should be able to wrap their hand around the scroll (top of the neck) comfortably. This test ensures the arm isn’t overstretched and that the player can reach all parts of the fingerboard with ease. 5. Importance of Correct Size for Technique and Avoiding Injury An oversized or undersized violin can lead to poor posture and inefficient technique, making it harder to progress. A violin that’s too large requires extra effort to hold, increasing the risk of strain or fatigue, especially for young players. Choosing the right size violin allows beginners to learn with ease, making practice sessions more enjoyable and productive. Best Value Violin For a Child The Eastar EVA-2 Violin Set is a fantastic choice for beginners, offering 1/4, 2/4, and 3/4 sizes to fit players of all ages. It includes a complete package with a hard case, rosin, shoulder rest, bow, and extra strings, ensuring you're ready to play right away. The imprinted finger guide on the fingerboard makes learning easier, helping beginners build confidence and develop proper technique. Check Price on Amazon How To Choose The Right Violin Size For A Child Selecting the right violin size sets beginners and children up for a positive learning experience. Regularly check the fit as children grow, ensuring they move to larger sizes as needed. Starting with the right size violin makes learning smoother and allows players to focus on developing skills rather than struggling with an uncomfortable instrument.

Wondering if violin rosin can go bad or if it has a shelf life? Although rosin is a staple for violinists, it does eventually lose effectiveness. Here’s everything you need to know about rosin’s shelf life, how to spot bad rosin, what it’s made of, and whether it’s safe to ingest. Can Violin Rosin Go Bad? Violin rosin can lose effectiveness over time, showing signs like reduced stickiness, brittleness, or a crumbly texture. Made from pine resin and other natural ingredients, rosin is essential for bow grip but isn’t safe to eat. Proper storage can extend its shelf life for years. Violin rosin doesn’t “expire” in the way that perishable items do, but it can become less effective over time. A typical block of rosin can last several years with proper storage, but exposure to extreme temperatures, light, or humidity can make it dry out, harden, or crumble. Does Violin Rosin Have a Shelf Life? If your violin rosin is old, you may notice that it’s harder to apply to the bow or that it doesn’t produce a consistent tone. Generally, rosin has an optimal shelf life of 1–2 years for peak performance, though it can last longer if kept in a stable environment. What Is The Best Rosin For Violin? In 2024 the most popular professional violin rosin is from D'Addario. It's of the highest quality and comes in a solid case that ensures it will last for a long time. D'Addario KRDD Kaplan Premium Rosin with Case Check Price on Amazon How Do I Know If My Violin Rosin Is Bad? You can tell if your violin rosin has gone bad by checking its texture and performance on the bow. Here are a few signs: Hard and Brittle Texture : If the rosin has become very hard or brittle, it may not grip the bow hair effectively, resulting in a weaker sound. Reduced Stickiness : Rosin that has lost its stickiness may no longer produce enough friction to generate sound, causing the bow to slip. Crumbly or Powdery Appearance : Rosin that has dried out can break apart or develop a powdery surface, indicating it’s past its prime. Inconsistent Tone : If you notice that your violin’s tone sounds weak or inconsistent, old or degraded rosin could be the issue. What Are the Ingredients in Violin Rosin? What Is Violin Rosin Made Of? Violin rosin is primarily made from the sap or resin of pine trees, which is collected, purified, and hardened into the solid form used by violinists. To create different qualities of rosin, manufacturers sometimes add other ingredients, such as: Bee or Plant Waxes : These are added to soften the rosin and make it smoother to apply. Metallic Additives : Ingredients like silver or copper can be added to adjust the rosin’s stickiness or tone, often used for specific tonal qualities. Essential Oils : Some rosins contain oils to keep the product fresh and help it adhere to the bow hair more effectively. Is Violin Rosin Safe to Eat? No, violin rosin is not safe to eat. While rosin is made from natural ingredients, it’s not processed for consumption. Ingesting rosin can cause digestive discomfort and may be harmful depending on the additives used. Some rosins contain metallic additives or oils that are not food-grade and can be toxic if ingested. Although it looks delicious, DO NOT EAT VIOLIN ROSIN!