Three closely connected areas of violin acoustics are studied. They all strive to enhance our understanding of the transient behavior and lack of exact periodicity of musical notes played on bowed strong instruments. Of particular importance is the dynamics of the bow and the related issues of transients and responsiveness of the violin to the bow. The investigation uses both computer analysis and an experimental apparatus to achieve these goals. Collaborations with Dr. J. Woodhouse of Cambridge University and the use of the Pittsburgh Supercomputer Center support the investigation.
