h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

What about the fact that the top plate of the violin is referred to as the belly and is normally made from spruce while the back plate, ribs and neck are traditionally carved from curly maple.

Another point is the addition of two f-holes cut into the top plate. These holes play an important role in the radiation of sound at low frequencies and are vital in ensuring the correct flexibility of the top plate at the point where the strings and body interact most strongly.

There are many other factors that help the vibrations including the bridge in conjunction with the sound post.

Some mention of the effect of varnish (i.e. French Polish and related finishes) on the sound of the instrument would also be helpful. Although I guess this is a rather specialist field in itself.