I've never lost a lute string from breakage. The first set I had on the lute were on for about 10 years ( I wasn't playing much ). The current set ( just being changed out now ) has been on at least two years, with no problems.
Some of the causes I've seen for breakage over the years: 1) too much tension 2) a burr or sharp edge on the nut or bridge. 3) natural deterioration 4) unnatural deterioration ( e.g. someone spills acetone( possibly ) on the string ) Hope that helps... Garry -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, May 21, 2004 12:51 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Lute strings (durability) I realise it's not an exact science, but is anyone able to say approximately how long a lute string could/should last before it snaps? One of my D-strings has gone now, is at the most six months old. Is that normal, or should I take my instrument back to the luthier who made it for me and ask him to have a look? The strings on my guitar rarely snap. They are thicker, but nonetheless, to go after a few months seems a bit much to this beginner. Thanks in advance for any replies, cheers Tom --
