The A B C Student Violin Purchasing Guide

By Myrtle Cash


Part of going through high school is the wonderful opportunity to learn how to play a musical instrument. In the distant past most people either learned the piano or the violin. This was so prevalent that many times a piano or student violin became a cherished heirloom for many families. Now days there are many different types of instruments to choose from.

There are various wind instruments like flutes, clarinets and saxophones. The popular percussion instruments like drums, cymbals and xylophones. The various brass instruments like trumpets, trombones and tubas. And the older stringed instruments like harps, pianos, and violins.

While it has fell in to a little disfavor in the recent years, violins are versatile instruments to learn to play, though there are some things to consider before getting your student their first instrument. You want the student to have a rewarding experience. As important as it is to be frugal, saving money should never be your first concern. There are often many very good instruments available if you are willing to spend some time and look for them.

Understand what exactly you are searching for. For most beginning students, one of the more important things is the overall size. Violins come in full size, 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4. A good starting point is taking the student to a music store to try out the different sizes. They should comfortably hold it with one hand on the finger board, and their other bent at a 90 degrees while holding a bow.

Know what your budget is so you have an idea of what you can realistically spend. As much as it would be great to spend 15 thousand dollars on the best possible piece, this is very unrealistic for some one who is just learning it. Another option some people consider is renting, or renting to own. Sometimes you can get a great instrument using this option.

Take your time reading out about the various violins that are around to buy. In the past fifty years various different kinds of violins have been mass-produced by manufacturers. Generally those which are mass-produced now are considerably better than those which were constructed as little as ten years ago. Generally instruments that are mass-produced will typically not have the key features that makes them sound top notch. An older more expensive hand made violin may look rough but will generally possess a sweeter sound.

Never ever buy something without first holding it in your hands. Look at it, feel it and listen to it. Look for any cracks in the wood. Make sure the purfling is still intact. Make sure the fingerboard is straight and true, with no cracks or chips. Listen to how it sounds while it is being played.

It is not that difficult to find a superior student violin. Take the time to look at all your options. Plan to take your child along to the store and listen to what they have to say, as they will play it. And do not forget the greatest gift of all is music.




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