A One-Piece Or a Two-Piece Back Violin Choice Explained 

(Comparisons between BV7.5 in a very consistent grained one large piece of  maple tonewood and BV7.9, in a two piece back with unusually deep grained European Maple Tonewoods)

The construction and visual appearance of the instrument play a significant role in its sound quality and overall value.  Ultimately, the aesthetic nature is so subjective, "beauty is also in the eye of the beholder" when choosing a Violin, where the sound qualities if two are almost the same, which violin would you pick?   In this post, we will explore the characteristics and benefits of both options, helping you make an informed decision when choosing a violin.  Whether you prefer the consistency and striking appearance of a one-piece back or the subtle visual element and potential tonal differences of a two-piece back, we will delve into the unique features and considerations of each. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind these two types of backs and discover how they contribute to the sound and playability of a violin.

Differences 

A One piece back violin means that the back of the violin has been cut from a single slab.  When we make a violin that is from a single slab, the wood that it is cut from is often twice the size of the instrument and we will cut out the most beautiful and stable part of the slab of wood.  Thankfully, we have good tonewood suppliers whom we have maintained a good rapport with over many years, hence at Belcanto Violins, we have many choice one piece back instruments for sale for our customer following. 

On the other hand, a two-piece back is constructed from two separate pieces of wood that are joined together along a center seam. This seam runs vertically down the back of the violin, dividing it into two halves. Two-piece backs are more common and can still produce excellent sound quality. The seam in the back can add a subtle visual element to the instrument, and some players believe that it can contribute to a slightly different tonal character compared to a one-piece back, possibly making it somewhat more interesting to play.

(above a BV 7.9 Made beautifully by one of master makers of our workshop from European Tonewoods.  The fittings of the Violin are specially design to suit the violin.  The selection of maple for the neck was also carefully selected as narrow grained piece to complement and complete the look of this exquisite violin back)

The main difference between a one-piece and a two-piece back on a violin lies in the construction and visual appearance of the instrument.  A two-piece back is cut from the thickest part of two symmetrical slabs of wood, to produce the "tiger back" markings that you see in most instruments like the BV7.8 Violin above.

A Single Large Piece of Wood Produces a Deeper and Less Edgy Sound

A one-piece back is made from a single, uninterrupted piece of wood, typically maple. This means that the back of the violin is crafted from a single section of wood, extending from the neck block to the lower bout. One-piece backs are often considered desirable because they can provide a more consistent and even tonal response - a deeper, rounder, less edgy sound. This would particularly be advantageous for violas or cellos as we would want that type of deep resonance. 

Aesthetics and Rarity of a One Piece Back Explained

It would be very rare to chance upon such a large and strong piece of exquisite tonewood and the value of the instrument would be it's rarity.  A One Piece Back Violin would also tend to have a visually striking appearance like the BV7.9 Violin Example above, showcasing the beauty of natural grain patterns of the wood.

(Above is the Supremo Series: 1741 "Vieutemps" Guarneri 'del Gesu' made by our master maker of our workshop where the varnish had been specally and carefully applied in multiple layers to achieve this shaded effect. The tonewoods of the two piece back and ribs are also matching to follow the style of the actual and original Guarneri violin)

Stability and Durability

The one-piece maple back on a violin serves several important purposes. Firstly, it contributes to the overall structural integrity of the instrument, providing stability and durability due a near perfection in selection of such a large piece of tonewood.  Selecting a single and strong durable slab is crucial for maintaining the violin's shape and preventing any warping or distortion over time and during the course of making the Violin.

Tonal Enhancement 

Additionally, the one-piece maple back plays a significant role in the instrument's sound production. It helps to enhance the tonal qualities and resonance of the violin. The uninterrupted grain pattern of a one-piece back allows for better transmission of vibrations, resulting in a more vibrant and balanced sound. 

(BV3 Special Edition Model Violin)

Skill level that was Required to make it 

Furthermore, the use of a one-piece maple back is often associated with higher-quality violins. It requires skilled craftsmanship and careful selection of wood to create a seamless and visually appealing back. This attention to detail and craftsmanship is indicative of the overall quality and value of the instrument.  At $480SGD is our entry price level of a one piece back violin which is the intermediate BV3 Special Edition model.  This model is always made as a one-piece back and very popular amongst buyers as the aesthetic value and tonal qualities are often very hard to say no to.  For this reason, we further enhance the package with a case with an inbuilt hygrometer to gauge humidty to aid with the maintenance of the instrument.  Rarely would we have a limited edition piece in a lower model in a one-piece back.  For those instruments, due to it's difficult construction and skill, we often are not able to give a discounted rate for those.

Ultimately, the choice between a one-piece and a two-piece back comes down to personal preference and the specific characteristics desired in the sound and appearance of the violin. Both options can result in high-quality instruments, and it is important to consider factors such as craftsmanship, wood selection, and overall playability when choosing a violin.

(Above is a card that we give to all customers who get the chance and rarity of owning a one piece back model from our Workshop!)