Press Release

New Tailpiece Boosts Performance and Eliminates Wolf Tones in Violins, Violas, and Cellos

Greenfield Center, NY Nicholas Frirsz, 5th generation master luthier, craftsman, and inventor, has introduced new tailpieces for violins, violas and cellos designed to help eliminate wolf tones and provide better sound from any stringed instrument.

The Frirsz Tailpiece utilizes a patented, 3-dimensional design, which varies the afterlength of the strings between the bridge and the tailpiece. This design creates more open string area for the longer wavelength bass notes to resonate. The tailpiece also orients the bass strings closer to the top of the instrument, which improves the distribution of down force on the bridge. These unique design qualities optimize the sympathetic tones in the afterlength area and enhance the overall balance, projection, sustain, and sensitivity of the instrument.

"The new tailpiece creates a balance between the four strings that's not possible with a conventional tailpiece. My customers notice the difference in their instruments immediately," states Frirsz. This patented design is based on ideas he has been developing for over 15 years.

Players have responded favorably to the improved performance of their instruments after installing the tailpiece. Renowned violinist Elmar Olivera says his modern violin now has "more ring, and has eased up on the brilliance." Where previously he would run into wolf tones, he reports them diminished to the point of being inconsequential. He says "I no longer have any apprehension playing."

Paul Arnold, violinist with the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra states that the Frirsz tailpiece "opens up a rainbow of tonal colors and brilliant clarity that in many cases is truly breathtaking." He recommends the tailpiece "to all who are interested in realizing a significant improvement in the performance of their instrument."

Contemporary materials, traditional aesthetics

Frirsz's modern tailpiece features aesthetics that complement traditional stringed instrument design while delivering state-or-the-art performance enhancements to any instrument – old or new.

Available in matte black or antique brass finish, the tailpiece retails for $299 for violin and viola sizes. That includes a tuner on the highest string, and adjustable tail loop, plus an embroidered pouch. A cello tailpiece featuring the same technology is in development.

Frirsz music is selling through select dealers and directly on their website, www.frirszmusic.com, which also has instructions and suggestions for setup.