How to choose the right beginner violin?
Photo by cottonbro studio
Being a beginner playing the violin is an intimidating phase in a musician’s life. But it’s also crucial because this stage is all about building the foundation and fundamentals you need to become a successful violinist. One challenging part of being a beginner is choosing the right instrument. You need to take many options and considerations to purchase the ideal violin for you. Fortunately, there are particular ways how you can pick the right beginner violin.
Understanding beginner violins
Beginner violin is specially designed for students just beginning to learn the instrument. Manufacturers craft these instruments very carefully. They ensure it’s durable, easy to play, and affordable, perfect for beginners.
You’ll find most starter violins made of solid wood or laminate materials. Violins crafted with solid woods offer a warmer and more resonant tone and sound but can be expensive. Moreover, laminate violins are more budget-friendly and temperature and humidity resistant.
Aside from that, this type of instrument also come in different sizes that complement players of different ages and body frames. Lastly, purchasing a violin for starters often includes accessories like a bow, case, rosin, and even a shoulder rest.
Choosing the right size
Picking the right violin size for beginners is crucial to ensure speedy learning progress, proper technique, and comfort while playing.
It’s important to understand that if you play the violin with the correct size, you can maintain proper form and technique. You don’t want a violin that’s too large or small for you since it can cause discomfort and hinder your learning. To give you an overview of the sizes and recommended player’s age, look at the following.
- 1/16: 3-5 years old
- 1/10: 4-6 years old
- ⅛: 5-7 years old
- ¼: 6-8 years old
- ½: 8-10 years old
- ¾: 10-12 years old
- 4/4 or full size: 12 years old to adults
You can use it as a general guide. But you should also consider your physical characteristics, like height and arm length, before deciding.
Visiting music stores or online retailers
One of the best ways to get the right beginner violin is to see and try the instrument. You can visit several music stores to find the perfect instrument for you. You can hold and feel the violin and see whether it resonates with you. You’ll also get an idea of how wide your options are and easily filter out the possible violins fit for you.
Don’t be afraid to visit and ask music stores about their instruments. It’s normal and a nice habit if you want to get the right one for you. This way, you can gain hands-on experience and expert guidance from the store’s knowledgeable staff.
If you choose to look for online retailers, you can still do so. One good thing about online marketplaces is that it offers an extensive selection of instruments, convenience, and accessibility. Likewise, you’ll see reviews of previous customers regarding the instruments. This way, you’ll be guided on your purchase.
Checking for quality and condition
The last step in choosing the right beginner violin is checking quality and condition. When checking, you might want to assess the following aspects of the instrument.
- Craftsmanship
- Materials
- Sound quality
- Playability
- Hardware and components
- Maintenance and care
- Documentation and authenticity
- Return policy and warranty
If you’re not confident in assessing an instrument’s quality, you can seek help from a music teacher or anyone knowledgeable in violins.
Conclusion
Oftentimes, the first instrument of beginner musicians is a big deal. What you choose can either make or break your confidence and playing experience. This is why as a starter in learning the violin, you should know how to choose the right one. By learning more about beginner violins, visiting music stores or online retailers, and checking the quality and condition, you’ll be able to find the right beginner violin. Just remember to take your time and seek help if necessary.