[ErrantX]

A better way to put it is I've heard both sides of the story; and one strikes me as more logical :)

I'm sure there are lots of links to habit, the "feeling" of the instrument and some affects of ageing. But I don't see a lot of scientific evidence to show a real change in the instrument.

I dont consider that a bad thing: who cares if it s physical or psychological - it's all part of being a great musician and people enjoying it! Every subject has it's mythology.

[wglb]

I think you are off base. My daughter has played cello for quite a few years. She reports that it needs to be played regularly or the sound changes. The music store where she bought this invites violin and cello players to come and play instruments in storage to keep them in shape.

This is not bunk.