BassgyGrace, I am in complete agreement (excellent example by the way). While particular sonic signatures can only be achieved by a particular assembly of materials, our physical interaction dramatically impact the sound it produces.
"In music, articulation refers to the direction or performance technique which affects the transition or continuity on single note or between multiple notes or sounds. There are many different kinds of articulation, each having a different effect on how the note is played. Some articulation marks include the slur, phrase mark, staccato, staccatissimo, accent, sforzando, rinforzando, and legato. Each articulation is represented by a different symbol placed above or below the note (depending on its position on the stave). Woodwind and brass instruments generally articulate by tonguing, the use of the tongue to break the airflow into the instrument. Bowed stringed instruments use different bowing techniques to achieve different articulations."
Therefore, the way we fret and pluck a string, the amount of pressure we apply, the duration of the notes, etc, are what truly make up whatwe call "tone". Now if you want to discuss frequency ranges, harmonic resonance and sympathetic vibration, and other things related to the study of sound, then you will stand on firmer ground.