The Secret Ingredient

A Guide To Rosin

Rosin is an essential item for all string players yet remains strangely shrouded in mystery. Where does it come from? Why are there so many different kinds? And how much influence does it have on sound? Here we attempt to reveal some of its secrets and offer advice on choosing the right kind for you.

What Is Rosin?

Rosin is made from the resin extracted from pine trees. The resin is collected using a tapping process, which does not harm the tree.

It is then mixed with the liquid resin from other types of tree such as larch or spruce and heated until it solidifies. However, the exact formula used to make the finished product remains a closely guarded secret!

What Is It For?

String players apply rosin regularly to the bow hair. The rosin's stickiness helps the hair to 'grip' the string and the resulting friction is what makes the string vibrate and produce sound.

In short: no rosin, no sound! Therefore, it is an absolute essential for all string players.

Why Are There Different Colours?

Rosin generally comes in two colours - a rich amber or a dark green-black.

The different colours derive from the time of year the tree was tapped. Colder months produce the paler, amber rosin which has a harder and denser texture, and warmer seasons give us the dark, softer variety.

The two types have quite different properties and purposes: harder, amber types of rosin are generally suited to violin and viola, whilst softer, darker types suit cello and double bass.

Which Rosin Is Right For Me?

When we are assisting customers to find the most suitable type of rosin, there are several factors it is helpful to consider.

1. Student vs. Professional Grade. This decision mainly depends on your budget and standard of playing. Beginners should be able to make a good even sound with an entry-level rosin, whilst professional players will often have more specific tonal requirements.

2. Playing Context. For the more experienced player, different rosins offer different tonal options. Solo playing often requires a harder rosin to produce the necessary projection. Other musical contexts may require a softer rosin to produce a smoother, more blended sound.

3. Strings. Different types of strings respond best with certain types of rosin. Steel strings such as Jargar are most suited to a hard rosin, whilst synthetic or gut strings suit a softer product. Pirastro have created certain rosins to complement their strings such as their Evah Pirazzi Gold range of strings and rosin.

4. Climate. Harder rosins are definitely a good choice for withstanding hot or humid climates, whilst soft rosins respond better in cold weather. Some players alternate their rosin type according to the season.

How Often Should I Rosin My Bow?

A common misconception is that you need to apply rosin to the bow every time you play. Once every three or four practice/playing sessions should be more than adequate.

If you find yourself needing to use rosin much more frequently than this to achieve a clear sound it may be time for a bow rehair!

And What About All This Dust?

As you play, the rosined bow hair will create a fine white dust. This presents two issues: firstly, some people find they are sensitive to the dust, with similar symptoms to other dust allergies. If you experience any problems, you may want to try a hypoallergenic rosin. As harder rosins generally create more dust, switching to a softer type may also help.

Secondly, the dust will settle on the body of your instrument so it's important to clean it off each time you finish playing. A soft microfibre cleaning cloth is ideal for this. A good dusting routine will ensure your strings and instrument's varnish stay in good condition.

Beginner Rosins: Hidersine 3V / 3C; D'Addario Kaplan Artcraft

Professional Rosins: Andrea; Pirastro (Evah Pirazzi Gold, Goldflex, Oliv etc); Leatherwood

Good All-Rounders: Bernardel; Melos