Violin construction and mechanics four open strings, usually tuned to G, D, A, and E. The strings run from a tailpiece attached to the base, across a wooden bridge, continue towards the neck of the instrument running parallel to the fingerboard, and connect to the pegbox located at the very top of the violin. They are wound around four tuning pegs that are mounted sideways through holes in the pegbox. The bridge helps to hold the strings in place, while the pegs maintain the tension necessary to produce vibration. Strings were first made of sheep's intestines (called "catgut"), stretched, dried and twisted. Contrary to
Catgut (horse) in a five furlong Subscription Plate. The race was for two and three-year-olds with the provision that the winner would be available for sale at a price of 350 guineas. Catgut started second favourite in a twelve runner field but finished unplaced behind Soota, a black filly owned by Mr Lake. Catgut was retired from racing to become a broodmare at the Duke of Grafton's stud. She produced five foal by stallions including Election, Partisan and Woful before being sold to Mr S L Fox in 1829. The following pedigree assumes that Catgut was sired by Comus Catgut (horse) Catgut