“Technology” is one of those words that we use and believe we understand. However it’s a difficult word to define. Wikipedia.com defines the word like this:

Technology is a broad concept that deals with human as well as other animal species’ usage and knowledge of tools and crafts, and how it affects a species' ability to control and adapt to its environment…

New technology is always being applied as we create, use and adapt to new learning tools. Musical instruments are good examples of tools that are constantly in a state of change. We search for ways to make them easier to play, more sturdy, more unique and more fun. We learn from and adapt to these changes, and then find more ways to apply new technology – it goes on and on.

Technology is not a modern concept. In the 1700’s, Francois Xavier Tourte improved the violin bow (and in turn, all other string bows) by changing the way it was created and how it operated. The result is the modern bow we use today.

In the same general time period (mid-1600’s to the early 1700’s) Antonio Stradivari changed the way the world looked at violin making. Both men had only manual tools and organic materials but were able to apply their knowledge and craftsmanship – and no doubt, trial and error – to advance musical technology.

These advancements were actually necessary for musicians to adapt to a changing musical world as demands on the musician intensified. Concert halls became larger, music was being written for larger groups of instruments and solo works became more technically challenging to perform.

What does stringed instrument technology mean today? Electric instruments and accessories are the most obvious. We strive to create electronics that mimic true acoustic sound. Effects pedals and amplifiers distort and compress sound to make violins sound like electric guitars. Computer programs capture sound for recording and edit the information. We adapt to the demands of a musical environment that pushes the envelope daily.

Technology has an organic side as well. Bows and cases are now being made out of “green” materials that cut down on the harvesting of trees and the use of materials harmful to the environment. Adapting to change sometimes means working to preserve our environment so the technology can survive. Can you think of more musical ideas and products have been the result of applied technology? What things have forever changed an area of music or performance?

Here are some items that West Music offers that are good examples of Technology at work:

• CODA Diamond Series Bows – braided graphite bows with a Kevlar core. These bows play like fine wood bows but don’t deplete the Brazilian pernambuco wood crop. Their performance and strength is guaranteed for life by the company.
• Mark Wood Electric Violins – these are truly the future of string playing. 4, 5, 6 and 7-string models come with or without frets. Professional-grade pickups create incredible sound and easy playability. Custom finishes and hardware are available.
• Yamaha SV-150 Silent Practice violin – the newest addition to the Silent Violin line-up, this model is ultra light. The plug-in module includes a digital tuner, metronome, 24 guitar effects and an SD memory card so you can store and play along to MIDI, WAV or MP3 files.
• ETHOS violin case (available on special order only) – a lightweight, protective oblong case made with natural materials and fibers. Imported from Germany.

Call or stop in your local West Music store for more information on how we work to bring technology to you!