Unexplainable What's good sound?
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Jan 28, 2026 Michael Doran, a Seattle-based violin and cello maker who crafts and tunes hand-built instruments for orchestral players. He talks about how small tuning shifts like A440 affect instrument stress and projection. He explores overtones, the sound post’s surprising power, workshop rituals, and the maker’s pursuit of brighter versus warmer tone.
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Small Tuning Shifts Change Presence
- Tiny shifts in tuning (a few Hz) change an instrument's presence and perceived energy.
- Michael Doran describes higher A as more focused and edgy while A440 feels more relaxed and breathable.
Two Violins, Two As In The Shop
- Michael recounts having two violinists, one tuned to A440 and one to A443, play together in his shop.
- He noticed the A443 instrument sounded direct and edgy while the A440 instrument felt more spacious and sinking.
Tuning Alters Overtones And Tone Color
- Changing the primary frequency alters the instrument's overtones and upper partials, shifting tone color.
- Doran links shifts in partials (even near 18–20 kHz) to changes in perceived presence and brilliance.