Playing a musical instrument is a great way to express yourself. Music also offers a creative outlet and a form of discipline that is very rewarding. Violins, in particular, make the most enchanting sound when played correctly. However, competent musicianship isn’t the only factor in making a violin sound beautiful. To get the best sound, you will need to choose a violin that is crafted with quality and fits you well physically.
Check out our buying guide for everything you need to know about choosing your perfect violin.
What is a violin?
A violin is a stringed musical instrument. Predictably, it is part of the string family, which also includes the viola and cello. Violins are sometimes known as a chordophone or a fiddle. Due to being the smallest instrument in the string family, it also possesses the highest pitch.
Most violins are made from wood and are hollow in the middle. Traditionally, violin strings are made from horsehair but more experimental materials have been used throughout history.
Why do you need a violin?
You may be a seasoned violinist whose beloved instrument has seen better days. Perhaps you are looking for a new hobby. Or, you may simply be looking for a gift for a loved one. There are so many reasons to want to buy a violin.
Self-improvement
You want to learn a new skill. You might want to improve yourself in some way that gives you joy. Self-improvement doesn’t need to be academic. It doesn’t need to make you fitter. Beginning something and seeing yourself get better over time does wonder for your self-esteem.
A violin increases dexterity in the fingers, aids concentration, and stimulates the mind. If you are learning in order to perform, it may also increase your confidence.
You are buying for your child
The benefits of a child learning a musical instrument are numerous. Learning a musical instrument teaches patience. No child starts playing an instrument straight away. There is no quick reward. Your child will carry this lesson throughout their life.
Having violin lessons creates responsibility. The child must take the lessons and practice in their own time if they wish to exceed. They will feel more confident with a different outlet to express themselves. Learning about the violin and its history will expose your child to new music and cultures.
You are buying a gift
A violin can be a thoughtful and beautiful gift. If you have a friend or family member who could use a new creative outlet, why not offer them this one?
Playing an instrument reduces stress and creates a sense of pride. And if the person receiving the violin decides they’re not going to run off and join the orchestra any time soon, it still makes a lovely ornament.
You already play the violin
You may have been playing the violin for a while. Most players start with a beginner’s violin and progress to something better in time. If it’s time to upgrade your current violin for a more advanced instrument, you’ll obviously want to take some time to make the right decision.
What are things to consider before buying a violin?
Whether you are a seasoned player or not, it will be beneficial to search for your new instrument with a plan in mind. Read on for our list of things to consider before you hit those music stores.
Size
There are eight different sizes of violins. Each one accommodates the differences in heights and arm lengths for both adults and children. You will probably need to buy more than one violin for your child if they are not fully grown.
The wrong-sized instrument can cause injuries and sprains. Some music shops and luthiers (violin dealers) offer a trade-in policy. If you return an instrument you may get a discount for the next one. Not all music shops or luthiers adopt this policy, so it is best to check before purchasing.
Check for damage
There are several places on a violin that are well known for acquiring damage. Inspect the instrument for cracks. Some shop owners will put varnish over the crack to try and hide it. Cracks can be fixed and still visible but you will need the shop owner to confirm this. You should check the following parts of your violin for damage before making your purchase:
- Fingerboard: Look down from the scroll over the fingerboard. You want to ensure it is smooth with no lumps or bumps. Turn it to the side. You want the fingerboard to have a slight convex curve. If the fingerboard curves the opposite way, it is either poorly made or warped.
- Scroll: Make sure the scroll isn’t broken. The scroll is the top part of the violin. If a violin takes a tumble, this is usually the first part that will break. Look between the pegs to inspect for cracks.
- Tailpiece: Remember to also check underneath the tailpiece for signs of damage. When players remove their strings or change them, the bridge can fall down. This can leave an undesirable mark on the top of the violin.
- Bridge: Inspect the feet of the bridge. You want the feet to be flat against the wood with full contact. Any space here will make your violin unplayable.
Woodgrain
A tighter wood grain generally signals a higher quality of wood. This wood comes from an older tree and is much sturdier. This does not necessarily mean better as some bench-made instruments have wider wood grains on purpose. This provides a softer, more open sound. As a rule of thumb, if a violin has been bench made with a wider grain, it will cost upwards of $5000. When buying a cheaper violin, it is better to opt for a tighter grain.
Violins price range
Violin prices can range from $100 to $100,000. For a beginner violin, you will want to spend between $400 and $2,000.
Violin FAQ
Q. What are some well-known violin brand names?
A. Some of the most popular brands include Stentor, Fiddlerman, Kennedy Violins, D Z Strad, Mendini, Cecilio, Franz Hoffmann, and Carlo Lamberti. However, there are many more brands that produce high-quality instruments.
Q. Are violins difficult to learn to play?
A. Yes— violins (and string instruments in general) are considered difficult to play. They are sensitive and complex instruments that require a lot of lessons and practice to play remotely well.