The process of purchasing your first violin is more difficult than finding a good brass instrument because there are always inconsistencies in the wood which make an instrument play better or worse than other instruments made at the same factory.
If possible, the best course of action when purchasing an instrument is to work closely with your teacher. This will help prevent getting an instrument that looks great but does not play well, or is over priced.
A high-quality violin is extremely important to the learning process. Finding a high quality violin for a reasonable price can often be challenging especially if you are new to the process.
Purchasing Options
- Many music stores have instruments available for rental, as well as rent-to-own options
- Specialized Violin Music Stores often offer a wider range of options to choose from
- Amazon and Ebay offer a great way to buy reasonably priced instruments
New Or Used
There are several advantages to buying a new (instead of used) instrument. New instruments are often covered by a limited-time warranty, and often come with a full set of strings and at least one bow, as well as a new violin case and shoulder rest. The instrument is also less likely to be damaged in any way. In addition, most stores accept exchanges if you become dissatisfied with your instrument.
A high-quality new student violin should cost at least $150. It is always possible that you may find a great deal, but please proceed with caution when looking at instruments below this price. Chinese made instruments are often more cost-effective than instruments from France, Germany or Italy. In recent years, the quality of these chinese instruments has been slowly improving.
Recommended Violins
Mendini MV200 – Hand carved spruce top with maple back and sides
Saga Cremona Student Models – Hand carved spruce top with maple back and sides
ViF Student Instruments – Solid spruce top and maple back and sides
Care Of Your New Instrument
- After each use, clean the surface of the violin under and around the bridge with a soft dry cloth. This will help keep rosin residue at bay.
- When putting the bow away, make sure to loosen the bow hair. This will prevent premature warping of the wood, and will help keep the bow hair in good condition.
- When not in use, it is always a good idea to keep the violin in its case. You never know when your dog is going to run into the room 🙂
- Protect the violin from damage due to severe temperature changes. Store the violin away from open air-conditioning vents and out of unattended cars, especially in the summer.
- In the hot Texas summers, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will also damage the varnish protecting the wood of the violin
If you have any questions or need help picking out a good instrument you can contact us by email, phone, or just ask a question in the comments below.