Humidity and Bowed Instruments
Reason to humidify: The primary reason to humidify is to create a stable environment for the instrument, which can help prevent cracking and in some cases will improve the sound.
Be consistent or don't do it: Dimensional instability due to on-and-off humidifying will be counterproductive. If you choose to humidify, make sure that your humidifier stays moist at all times.
Cello bridges: Humidity changes can shift the fingerboard projection on some sensitive cellos requiring a winter and a summer bridge, one higher and one lower.
Tonal changes due to humidity fluctuation: A periodic sound post adjustment (by someone who knows what they are doing!) will usually correct this.
Moving to a dry climate: A sensitive instrument, particularly vintage instruments may need professional attention after moving to a dry climate.
Open seams due to dryness: Better an open seam than a crack in the top! But do get it fixed right away.
Be consistent or don't do it: Dimensional instability due to on-and-off humidifying will be counterproductive. If you choose to humidify, make sure that your humidifier stays moist at all times.
Cello bridges: Humidity changes can shift the fingerboard projection on some sensitive cellos requiring a winter and a summer bridge, one higher and one lower.
Tonal changes due to humidity fluctuation: A periodic sound post adjustment (by someone who knows what they are doing!) will usually correct this.
Moving to a dry climate: A sensitive instrument, particularly vintage instruments may need professional attention after moving to a dry climate.
Open seams due to dryness: Better an open seam than a crack in the top! But do get it fixed right away.