Reasons You Don't Leave a Violin in a Hot Car During the Summer

Leaving delicate instruments like a violin in a hot car during the summer is a recipe for disaster. The violin temperature needs to be carefully controlled to avoid damage, as these instruments are not built to withstand extreme heat. The temperature range inside a parked car can easily exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, far beyond what is safe for a violin. Even if your violin is inside its case, the high temps can cause significant harm. Additionally, leaving a valuable instrument in plain sight could attract thieves, leading to the potential loss of your prized possession.

Not the Sound You Want to Hear

Heat can have a significant effect on violins, which, along with violas, cellos, and basses, are particularly sensitive to drastic weather changes. The bridge of the instrument, for instance, can sit higher than usual due to expanding the wood, making it uncomfortable to play and necessitating frequent adjustments or replacements.

Cracking and Varnish Damage

The glue binding a violin's seams can melt under high temperatures, causing cracks and open seams. This damage not only weakens the instrument but also affects its sound quality. Cracked instruments require professional repairs, which can be both costly and time-consuming. Furthermore, summer conditions can soften a violin's varnish, leading to permanent impressions from the case lining or other materials.

Warping: A Common Summer Issue

Summer heat can cause warping of various parts of the violin. The bow, bridge, and even the neck of the instrument can warp, making it difficult to play and requiring professional intervention to correct. This warping is accelerated by the constant pressure exerted by the strings and the impact of the heat on the structure of the wood.

A Simple Strap Can Save the Day

One of the most common ways violins get damaged during the summer is by being forgotten in a hot car. Whether stolen or damaged by the heat, the outcome is often the same: a compromised instrument. To avoid this, always remember to bring your violin with you when leaving your vehicle. A violin case with a strap can be a lifesaver, making it easier to carry and less likely to be forgotten.

Summer Protection Tips for Violins

To keep your violin in good condition during the summer, follow these tips:

• Never Leave Your Instrument in a Vehicle: A hot car can quickly become a sauna, causing extensive damage to your violin. Always take your instrument with you.
• Avoid Direct Sun or Heat: When playing outdoors, ensure your instrument is sheltered from direct sunlight and heat. Indoors, keep your violin away from windows and doorways where sunlight can pour in.
• Control Humidity: Use a humidifier or dehumidifier to maintain ideal humidity levels for your violin. Consider using a backup instrument for playing in particularly humid conditions.
• Store in Temperature-Controlled Environments: Store your violin in a room with moderate temperatures and humidity levels, ideally between 65-75ºF and 40-55% humidity.
• Use Instrument-Specific Humidifiers/Dehumidifiers: These tools can help manage the humidity levels within your instrument's case, providing additional protection.

By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your violin remains in optimal condition throughout the summer. Remember, if you're uncomfortable, it's likely your instrument is too. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially when it comes to a delicate instrument like the violin.