The choice for a new musical generation.
Choosing A String(ed) Instrument
Beginner “Outfits”
An outfit includes the instrument, bow, and case, which is what you need to get
started. These outfits come in different sizes.
You have probably heard of fractional sized violins: violins that have been scaled
down for children. Believe it or not, these tiny instruments come as small as 1/32 size.
They then increase to 1/16, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 and 4/4 (or full-size), which has a back
length of 14”. Usually the appropriate size is determined by having the child put the violin
under his/her chin and extending his/her arm so the fingers curl around the scroll.
Quality is Key
There is a wide range of acceptable to superior quality instruments for players at
various levels. It’s important to reach at least the minimum standard level of quality, or
the playing experience can be greatly curtailed and a musical career can be unwittingly
shortened! The right instrument and set up will ensure the right tool for the job.
Because of the high cost of labor in the Western countries, the student instrument
market has been taken over in the East. These products offer very good value, since the
quality has notably improved over the past 10 years.
Bows can be made out of wood or synthetic materials. Typically the synthetic
bows are better for children since they are harder to break! However, they should always
be strung with real horsehair.
Cases can be made from an array of materials, which vary from harder to softer.
The harder cases tend to be a bit more protective, but heavy, while the softer cases,
usually made out of foam, are lighter but less secure. Cases that are both harder and
lighter do exist, but they tend to be quite expensive.
Setup
In addition to the basic instrument, the ‘setup’ includes the items that can be
removed from the instrument. These include the strings, bridge, pegs, and tailpiece (these
should only be removed by a professional in most cases). Ideally, quality setup elements
are already properly integrated into the instrument, but note that they can be changed to
improve performance (at a cost, of course, so it’s best if quality items are incorporated in
the first place!) For example, strings alone can enhance the sound and playability of an
instrument.
The choice for a new musical generation.
Pricing
As mentioned, dirt-cheap offers should be avoided as the poor materials and
workmanship will lead to frustration and possible failure.
Prices of acceptable quality beginner instruments usually range from $400 to $600
for a violin, $600 to $800 for a viola, and $1,500 (and up) for a cello
Parents may be reluctant to purchase an instrument when Suzie comes home from
3 grade wanting to start the violin. Renting is a good option until her dedication, talent,
and enjoyment are determined. Also, purchasing a tiny violin that will end up in the closet
after a couple months because she outgrew it may seem like a waste. Many shops also
offer credit towards an instrument purchase by using their rental program, so you won’t
feel like you have wasted money.
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Evaluating Quality
Buy from a reputable dealer who can help you evaluate the instrument. He or she
will stand behind his/her products and may also take fractional sizes back in trade. Using
trade-in allowance can be a smart idea.
As noted above, a “brand – X” violin may end up being a waste of money. A violin
dealer (one who specializes in bowed strings) will, more than likely, only carry
instruments of quality (read: they don’t want to deal with potential problems any more
than you do!).
Again. Beware of cheap instruments! Some pitfalls include unseasoned wood that
can crack, necks and bridges that warp, pegs that stick and bad setups (the fit of the
bridge, nut, and shape of fingerboard). These will all hamper or stop progress.
To help you evaluate an instrument here are some key things to check out:
Checklist
1. Varnish on instrument has natural shading (avoid spray-painted “plastic” look)
2. Pegs work smoothly (ask for demonstration)
3. Bridge correct height (ask for demonstration) so all strings are easy to play without
buzzing
4. Bow tightens and loosens easily
5. Bow is strung with real horsehair
6. Strings are high-quality (examples include anything made by Thomastik-Infeld,
D’Addario, Pirastro, or Larsen)
7. Zips, latches, and handles on the case are of good quality (test them out!)
8. Instrument fits in the case correctly
9. Dealer stands behind product and offers repair service