Hi Ed, My understanding is that the resonant frequency of a volume (such as a lute or guitar) is a function of both the volume, and the size of the sound hole. So yes, in theory, a luthier could adjust the frequency somewhat by varying the size of the rose... though all the frilly bits might make this a bit tough to do predictably.
From a practical perspective, I'd be interested in knowing if any luthiers actually do this "tuning". Eric >James, > This is amazing. I tried this on my Baroque guitar. I merely muted >the strings with my hand. It clearly resonates at d and f. This is >good, I like Dm. :-) On my Ren lutes, it wasn't as pronounced and >seemed to be a wider Q factor (width). My B lute resonates at A low >pitch. This is truly facinating. > > > >>The difference is amazing. If you're not the sort to be convinced, >>as I am, by the physics, the sound will decide it--as it should. >>The resonance of the instrument will be greatly magnified, as will >>the volume, and even the clarity of the plucked notes and their >>overtones. I have done it with two 64cm lutes, one responded at E >>and the other at F. They are much the richer for it--totally >>different instruments. They stand up very well to a voice they >>accompany, without being overwhelmed. The harmonic synergy between >>the voice and lute (if it's you singing) is palpable. >> >> > >I'm wondering if this is something easy or difficult for a luther to >control. Do they design instruments to resonate at certain pitches? >If there is too much resonance doesn't that give an uneven response? >Who wants to be trying to play something evenly and one note suddenly >jump out? I haven't noticed that problem on my B guitar, but it is >pretty much a tank of an instrument anyway. > >
