Novel methods are proposed to measure the modal properties of thin plates, such as
free violin plates (prior to assembly), simply and inexpensively, by measuring
certain changes when a small mass is added to the resonating plate. Iso-amplitude
contours and mode shapes can easily be plotted. Modal mass, stiffness and
damping can also be inferred. Underlying theory is developed, and experimental
and numerical modelling methods of validation are briefly outlined.
