Daniel Hiller – Master Violin Maker and Founder of Berdani
Craftsmanship meets research. At Berdani, our work centres on the fittings that complete a string instrument. Through the Vibrant-String-Parts research project, we aim to investigate the relationship between these components and sound, and explore new possibilities for targeted tonal adjustment.
Vibrant-String-Parts: understanding sound
The project focuses on developing a method for optimising the tonal characteristics of string instruments through targeted modifications to components coupled to string vibration. To achieve this, all fittings relevant to the instrument’s vibrational behaviour are to be investigated.
The aim is to develop promising component designs and expand our understanding of how tonal characteristics can be influenced. Practical craftsmanship and systematic investigation are intended to work hand in hand.
Reproducing real bowing excitation
A new method is to be developed to reproduce the excitation produced by real bowing. This will provide a basis for investigating the relevant components and their influence on the vibrating system in greater detail.
The resulting knowledge is intended to improve our understanding of how the fittings interact and help develop new approaches to individual tonal adjustment.
Our contribution: developing manufacturing technologies
Berdani’s contribution focuses on the development of manufacturing technologies for string-instrument fittings that can be individually adjusted for tonal performance.
Our work therefore addresses how these components can be produced. The aim is to develop manufacturing approaches that allow fittings to be tailored to specific tonal requirements.
Exploring sustainable alternative materials
Another objective is to enable the use of sustainable alternatives to the tropical woods traditionally used for these components. Material selection is considered alongside the acoustic function of the fittings.
Vibrant-String-Parts thus brings together research into tonal relationships, the development of manufacturing technologies and the exploration of alternative materials.
Co-funded by the European Union
This project is co-funded by the European Union.
Beneficiary: BERDANI Feinste Bestandteile GmbH
Project: Vibrant-String-Parts – Development of a method for optimising the tonal characteristics of string instruments through targeted modification of components coupled to string vibration.