Why NERO Fittings are the Best Choice for the Maker and Dealer

Embracing Sustainable Craftsmanship: 

The world is becoming increasingly aware of environmental challenges, so many industries are stepping up to adopt sustainable practices. The craft of violin making, saturated in tradition and artistry, is no exception. An innovative solution emerging in this market are NERO renewable fittings, a practical beautifully designed choice for luthiers violin shops, and players dedicated to not compromising sound or traditional aesthetics.

What Are NERO Fittings?

NERO renewable fittings are crafted from sustainable materials (eucalyptus paper and thermoset resins) that offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fittings made from ebony. These fittings include pegs, tailpieces, chin rests, nuts, saddles, and endpins, all designed to meet the high standards of performance and beauty that violin makers value. The adoption of these fittings aligns with a growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible products as well as having the advantages of stability, ease of installation, and hypoallergenic properties.

The Benefits of NERO Renewable Fittings

Sustainability: The primary advantage of NERO renewable fittings is the commitment to sustainable sourcing we all must make. By utilizing materials that are renewable and responsibly harvested, violin makers can significantly reduce their impact on the environment. This is particularly important in an industry where the demand for exotic woods has led to overexploitation and deforestation. In the near future is is expected that all species of ebony will be banned for export and import.

Durability and Performance: NERO fittings are designed to provide excellent performance, matching the tonal qualities and improving on the durability and stability of traditional Madagascar ebony. They have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they can withstand the demands of professional use, making them a reliable choice for both amateur and professional musicians.

Aesthetic Appeal: The visual appeal of NERO fittings is undeniable. The material looks like the finest and most regular ebony. One advantage in manufacturing is the regularity of the material which allows the maker to perfect each shape. Violin makers can create stunning instruments that not only sound great but also look beautiful without sacrificing 250 year old ebony trees in the process.

Marketability: As awareness of environmental issues grows, consumers are increasingly looking for products that reflect their values. By incorporating NERO renewable fittings into their instruments, violin makers and dealers can attract a greater customer base who prioritize sustainability in their purchasing decisions.

Integrating NERO Renewable Fittings into Your Business and Artistry

For violin makers and dealers looking to incorporate NERO renewable fittings into their work, the transition can be seamless. Here are some notes to get started:

Understand the differences in installation: NERO pegs are simpler to install than traditional pegs (No shaving required) and high quality hide glue must be used with at least 192 gram strength to install fingerboards, which must be scored on the underside before gluing. We can provide you with an installation guide upon request.

Educate Your Customers: Share the story behind the use of renewable fittings with your clients. Educating customers about the benefits of sustainability not only enhances their appreciation for your work but also positions you as a forward-thinking luthier or dealer.

Stay Informed: The field of sustainable materials is constantly evolving. Stay updated on new developments and innovations in the industry to ensure that your practices remain relevant and effective.

Comments shared with us by Well-Respected Members of the Trade and performers:

"I showed them to my colleague in the symphony, and he said he even thought they were more beautiful than ebony."

“The ends of pegs polish up with ease and have the perfect conical shape. The install was extremely efficient. They look and feel just like the highest quality ebony."

"That fingerboard went on easier that any ebony fingerboard I have fit up! It planes just like ebony. all you need is a sharp plane (and I always have one sharp anyway)…"

“I went to a local violin shop that had a sample set of Nero fittings installed on a violin. I was impressed by the fact that the pegs were easy and smooth to turn. That could be a game-changer for teachers who spend too much time tuning before even getting to teach!

I was also impressed with the acoustic results. I did a side-by-side trial and it seemed identical to ebony.”

"Thanks for sending me the NERO pegs. They are great...They were absolutely easy to install and turn amazingly easily. We will save a lot of time on peg installs with them and will be using them in the future. But they are not just for student violins; they look and act like a premium ebony peg as well!"

“I wanted to let you know that we have been using your new  NERO pegs, chin rests and tailpieces, as well as the fingerboards nuts and saddles as an alternative to ebony since we have been concerned about an impending ban.

The pegs go in very easily and are already tapered to fit. They work very well and can be installed in ten minutes as opposed to the hour it normally takes for ebony. The tailpiece and chinrest go on as easily as well, and are nearly impossible to tell apart from ebony and are indistinguishable to my customers. Some have said that they think the new parts make the instrument sound better.

The fingerboards go on just easily as regular ebony, but I don’t have to worry about warping. They also plane down like ebony and finish to a very fine level of polish.

In all I like the new parts very much and hope to use them extensively in the future.”

“More importantly, the ability to maintain the pegs stability and string pitch should shave 15 minutes off every classroom string teacher’s limited time with young string students, thereby leaving more time for instruction and expression. Kids need music now more than ever, the ……. They will give them and their school orchestra conductors more time for music.” 

THE VERDICT!

The adoption of NERO renewable fittings represents a significant step toward a more sustainable future in the world of violin making. By embracing these innovative materials, luthiers and dealers can honor their craft while also taking responsibility for the environmental impact of their work. As we look ahead, it’s clear that sustainability will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the violin-making industry, and those who adapt to these changes will not only thrive but also contribute to a healthier planet.

Embrace the change, innovate your craft, and join the movement towards sustainability in music! FITTINGS MATTER!

Contact us at 402.915.1495 or at nerostrings.com any time to sign up for wholesale pricing.