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Beginner Basics: How to Buy a Violin Online

October 11, 2022

Beginner Basics: How to Buy a Violin Online

Where and How to Buy a Violin Online

Are you a beginner violinist looking to purchase your first instrument? If so, you may be wondering where is the best place to buy a violin online

In this blog post, we will give you some tips on how to choose the right violin and what to look for when making your purchase. 

Happy shopping!

Should I Buy a Violin Online or In Store?

If you don’t have a musical instrument shop near you, or their selection of violins is limited, you may look into the option to buy a violin online. Here are some tips:

  • Be sure to do your research. There are many different brands and models of violins available, and it is important to find one that suits your needs.
  • Read reviews from other customers. Not all online retailers are created equal, and it is important to find one that has a good reputation.
  • Ask questions. If you are unsure about anything, contact the retailer and they should be able to help you out. 

While it’s always better to be able to play an instrument you’re looking to buy first, buying a violin online can often yield satisfactory results. And by following these tips, you can be sure to find the perfect violin for you online. You can always ask your violin teacher for tips, too. Plus, you’ll get all the other benefits of taking violin lessons, too – just see the video below. As they say, the proof is in the pudding! 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ev_MLvWnJJc 

Advantages of Buying a Violin Online

Outside of big cities, you might have only a few musical instrument shops within easy driving distance. No shop can carry every violin you might want to try, but they will likely stock a few of the popular models. There’s nothing wrong with this, as popular makers and styles are usually so for good reasons. But if you need a slightly larger or smaller model, or you like a less popular maker, you might need to buy your violin online. Many online music instrument retailers also offer violins with novelty finishes, which might appeal to younger players.

One of the great benefits of shopping online in general is the opportunity to compare prices. Physical stores often have higher overhead costs than online retailers, so shopping online often yields cheaper prices. Even when you shop at musical instrument stores that do business online and in person, normal price variations can help you save.

Disadvantages of Buying Online

Online shopping is not perfect, of course, and there are some aspects that make it especially challenging for buying musical instruments. For one, you can’t interact with seller in person. While this isn’t essential for buying a violin, when you go to a physical musical instrument shop, you’re able to ask questions about instruments other customers either bring in or are considering, or the seller can direct you to a maker or model that you haven’t considered, but that might be right for you. Of course, if you are sure of the maker and model you want, then buying a violin online can help you get what you need at the right price.

Also keep in mind that not all violins are created equal, and while they last a long time, violins do show signs of wear after a while. When you buy a violin online, you won’t get to inspect the instrument before buying. That “new” instrument might be a shopworn floor model. What the seller considers “excellent” condition may vary from your own definition a great deal. With online purchases, it’s easier for sellers to misrepresent instruments or service. A violin that looks great from one angle under certain lighting might be a mess of damage and neglect when you see it in person.

How to Buy a Violin Online: A Few More Tips

It’s no secret that buying a violin can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure where to start. The good news is that there are plenty of reputable online retailers that can help you find the perfect instrument for your needs. With a little bit of research, you can confidently purchase a violin that will suit your skill level and budget.

Understand the Instrument

To get started, it’s important to understand the different parts of the violin and what they do. 

The body of the violin is made up of three main sections: the scroll, the ribs, and the back. The scroll is located at the top of the instrument and helps to secure the strings. The ribs are attached to the back and sides of the violin, and they serve to support the top and bottom plates. 

The back is the largest section of the violin body, and it provides structural support for the other parts of the instrument.

Choosing a Good Online Retailer

When you’re thinking of buying a violin online, pick an online retailer that solely specializes in selling musical instruments. Avoid general re-sellers, who may buy a variety of items based on their resale value, as they are unlikely to be able to answer your questions about the instrument.

Some online retailers have guides for those buying a musical instrument. Consult these, and know that they are a sign of a knowledgeable retailer. Make sure to also check the return policy. Since your first time holding the instrument will be after your purchase, it’s important that you be able to return an instrument if it doesn’t meet your needs.

What is the Best Place to Buy a Violin Online?

Many people who are interested in playing the violin may not know where to buy one. There are many online retailers that sell violins, but not all of them are created equal. 

When looking for a violin, it is important to find a retailer that offers a wide selection of instruments, as well as a good return policy. Additionally, the retailer should have a team of experts who can help you select the right violin for your needs. 

Some good retailers to consider include Violinist.com and Shar Music. Both of these retailers offer a wide selection of violins, as well as helpful resources to help you select the right instrument. They also have excellent return policies, so you can be sure that you’re getting the best possible value for your purchase.

Trying Out Your Violin

Once your violin arrives, keep the packaging, and have it inspected by your instructor. Your violin teacher can also help you set up the bridge. However, if you have purchased a violin that was listed as new but shows clear signs of wear, that is a strong sign that you should return the instrument immediately, as any other claims about the instrument might be equally false. A few practice sessions should tell you whether or not this is the violin for you. If you find a small flaw or need for repair, your violin instructor should be able to determine whether the issue is serious enough for an exchange, or if the problem can be fixed by you or a local repair shop.

How to Buy a Good Violin Online: Tips for Success

Shopping for a violin online can be a daunting task, but with a little research, it is possible to find a great instrument at a reasonable price. 

How Much Does a Good Violin Cost?

If you’re shopping for a violin, you might be wondering how much you should expect to spend. While there’s no easy answer to this question, there are a few factors to keep in mind that can help you budget for your purchase. 

First, it’s important to distinguish between student and professional instruments. Student violins are typically less expensive, but they’re also designed for beginners who are still developing their technique. Professional violins, on the other hand, are designed for experienced players and can cost tens of thousands of dollars. 

Second, the quality of the materials and craftsmanship will affect the price. For example, violins made with rare woods or inlaid with mother-of-pearl accents will be more expensive than those made with more common materials. 

Finally, the brand name of the instrument can also impact the price. Well-known makers like Stradivarius or Guarneri will charge more than lesser-known brands. 

Ultimately, the best way to determine how much to spend on a violin is to consult with a reputable dealer or luthier who can help you find an instrument that meets your needs and fits your budget.

What is the Most Common Violin Size?

Violins come in many sizes, ranging from tiny instruments that are only a few inches long to full-size violins that are four feet or more in length. The most common size for beginner and intermediate violinists is the full-size violin. 

Full-size violins provide the widest range of tones and the largest sound, making them ideal for students who are still developing their musical skills. For smaller children or adults with small hands, there are also ¾ size and ½ size violins available. 

While these instruments may be easier to hold, they can be more challenging to play because of their limited range of tones. As a result, most beginners and intermediates should start with a full-size violin. With practice, they will be able to master the smaller instruments as well.

What is its Sound? 

When you are choosing a violin, one of the most important factors to consider is the sound. Each violin has its own unique sound, and you want to make sure that the sound is pleasant and pleasing to your ear. There are a few different aspects of the sound that you should pay attention to. 

First, listen to the tone of the violin. Is it rich and full, or is it thin and tinny? 

Second, pay attention to the volume of the sound. Some violins are very loud, while others are more subdued. You want to make sure that the volume is comfortable for you and that you will be able to hear the violin over other instruments if you are playing in an orchestra. 

Finally, pay attention to the resonance of the sound. 

Does the sound vibrate through your body, or does it just fade away after a few seconds? The best way to really get a feel for the sound of a violin is to try it out in person. If you can’t do that, then make sure to listen to recordings of the violin before you make your purchase.

Which Violin is Best for Beginners?

For beginners, it is best to purchase a violin that is both affordable and of good quality. 

There are many different brands and styles of violins available on the market, so it is important to do some research in order to find the instrument that is right for you. In general, student-level instruments are a good choice for beginners, as they are designed to be easy to play and produce a pleasing sound. 

It is also important to choose an instrument that is the appropriate size for your height and build. If you are unsure about which size to select, it is a good idea to consult with a music teacher or professional musician. 

What Should a Violin Be Made Of? 

Any discussion of violin acoustics must begin with an examination of the materials used to construct the instrument. 

The two most important components of a violin are the top and back plates, which are traditionally made of spruce and maple, respectively. These woods were selected for their ability to produce a clear, resonant tone. 

In addition, spruce is lightweight and stiff, while maple is heavier and more flexible. This combination of properties helps to create an instrument that is both resonant and responsive. 

Additionally, the use of different woods for the top and back plates helps to produce a wider range of tones. 

For example, a violin made with a spruce top and a maple back will have a brighter sound than one made with all spruce or all maple. As a result, the choice of materials is one of the most important considerations in the construction of a violin.

Is it Okay to Buy a Violin Online?

If you’re looking to buy a violin, you might be wondering if it’s okay to purchase one online. The answer is yes – in fact, buying a violin online can have several advantages. 

For one thing, you’ll have a much wider selection to choose from than you would if you were shopping in a brick-and-mortar store. You’ll also be able to take your time and compare prices before making a decision. And, thanks to the miracle of the internet, you can even find videos of the instruments being played so that you can get a better sense of what they sound like. 

Of course, there are some things to keep in mind when shopping online for a violin. Make sure to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase. And be sure to ask about return policies in case the instrument isn’t quite what you were expecting. 

And the best tip? Always ask your violin teacher for recommendations on the best way to buy a violin online – and if you’re not taking violin lessons yet, be sure to sign up. 

Buying a violin, whether online or in person, is a learning experience. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the different violin makers, and what styles seem to work best for you. As you become a more experienced violin player, your personal favorites will emerge, and they might even be the result of online purchases. Good luck!

 

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 Photo by Wystan

author
Megan L. is a writer and musician living in San Diego. She loves supporting independent artists and learning more about music every day. Megan has been working for TakeLessons since November 2011. Google+

Megan L.