Hi John, Yes the better quality violin strings were kept straight (except for E strings which are generally metal). The reason behind this that the core of the strings was woven/spun from *sheeps intestine* (i.e. "cat-gut"). The *weave* was made from six individual strands. They also needed to be kept moist. As this century progressed string makers began *flat* winding metals (often silver) over the gut core to protect the string from the ravages of playing. My teacher used *silk* E strings as a young student. Today a synthetic core is often used. Perlon is one *trade* name. You can also purchase strings that are made from metal but most classically trained musicians tha I know don't use them. Regards, Don Rose, B.Mus., A.M.U.S., A.MUS., R.M.T., R.P.T. drose@dlcwest.com http://www.dlcwest.com/~drose/ 3004 Grant Rd. REGINA, SK S4S 5G7 306-352-3620 or 1-888-29t-uner
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