If you have been playing violin for any period of time, you have probably heard of the popular Cat Brand rosin. Millant Deroux, the manufacturer of that rosin, was founded in the late 1800s by Sebastian-August Deroux when he moved to Paris.

His daughter and her husband, Leon Millant, had two sons named Roger and Max who took over their grandfather's business when he passed away in 1919. They continued to improve upon the rosin their company manufactured by increasing adhesion while simultaneously reducing dust.

During this period they created the popular logo of a cat playing a cello, thus earning them their nickname. Max's son took over the business later on, followed by acclaimed violinist Snorri Thorvaldsson and then his son.

Though their history spans over 100 years, not much has changed in their manufacturing process. They still use old-style methods to craft one of the most demanded rosins on the market.

The well-known red cap Millant rosin has been made the same way since its inception. It's always been loved for the clean and subtle sound it offers. It is also a low-dust rosin that doesn't shed as much as some other rosins. Cheap rosin can be impacted a great deal by changes in humidity and can become quite sticky, reducing the playability of your instrument.

Choosing the right rosin is imperative, as this can have a big effect on your playing ability and you should never sacrifice too much quality for

cost. This rosin had been the base for all rosin produced by Millant-Deroux and helped them find success in their business.

The wood box violin-shaped rosin is the result of collaboration between an Italian box-maker and Millant-Deroux's natural rosin. You still get the high-quality rosin you would expect from Millant. Now, however, you can get it in a beautifully crafted box carved from exotic aromatic wood.

The natural-grade rosin that comes with the case is one of Millant-Deroux's most in demand rosin products. It is a mixture of the smooth sounds offered by the classic dark rosin and the more robust notes found with the Colophane 2000 rosin.

This makes for a highly desirable rosin that can often be found in knock-off form. Be sure you're buying from a reputable

dealer such as Triangle Strings so you can get the authentic products.

Because of Millant-Deroux's traditional manufacturing practices, they are often in demand for as much as they can supply, something just as true for the violin-shaped wood box rosin.

You might expect to end up paying more for it, but it is still surprisingly affordable for musicians of any level. If you're looking for a great rosin to help you get the most from your playing experience, the classic Cat Brand is now available in a much more attractive container.