Best
HIGH-END
STUDENT VIOLIN
-
Overall: With harmonically rich tonality, thanks to tonewoods aged for over five years
-
Best Feature: With high-quality components such as a Wittner Ultra tailpiece
-
TedScore™: 9/10
Best
OVERALL VIOLIN
FOR BEGINNERS
Student Violin
Outfit Gets Students Off on
the Right Foot!
-
Overall: With a spruce top, flamed maple back and
sides, and durable inlaid purfling -
Best Feature: Genuine
ebony fingerboard and
fittings -
TedScore™: 8/10
Best
BUDGET
STUDENT
VIOLIN
Standard
Violin Outfit A top choice for
new beginners!
-
Overall:
Carved from solid tonewoods -
Best Feature:
Features blackened hardwood
pegs and fingerboard -
TedScore™:
8.5/10
Embarking on the violin journey is thrilling, yet choosing the right one can be challenging.
Just imagine the hundreds of violin models and the different reliable violin brands available in the market, and how you would know which one to consider and buy.
But don’t worry; I would love to share the violins for beginners that every beginner violinist deserves. And as a professional violinist with LOTS of students, I’ve had my fair share of experience choosing the best violin for a beginner!
Beware of violin-shaped objects (VSOs) that look like violins but lack playability and proper sound production!!!
I personally love the Yamaha AV7-44SG. Even though it’s an expensive model compared to other beginner violins, I still find it worth investing in. It comes with D’Addario Prelude strings, which are known for their quality and contribution to producing warm tones, and overall, it’s a superb package.
But for me, the best violin beginner is the one who blends affordability with a quality that encourages progress and lights a lifelong passion for music.
Understanding Your Needs as a Beginner
As a beginner, it’s essential to understand your needs when choosing the right violin. This includes considering your budget, playing style, and personal preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a violin. Beginner violins can range from under $100 to over $1,000. It’s important to balance affordability and quality to ensure you get a good instrument to encourage your progress.
Consider the type of music you want to play. If you’re interested in classical music, you may want a violin with a more traditional sound. A violin with a brighter sound might be more suitable if you’re leaning towards folk or pop music. Your playing style can significantly influence the type of violin that best suits your needs.
Think about the size and weight of the violin. If you’re a smaller person or have smaller hands, you may want a smaller violin. Conversely, if you’re a larger person or have larger hands, a full-size violin might be more comfortable. Comfort is key to enjoying your practice sessions and making steady progress.
High-quality strings, such as D’Addario Prelude strings, are known for their durability and warm tone, making them a great choice for beginners.
Understanding these factors will help you decide and find the perfect beginner violin that matches your needs and aspirations.
What to Look for in a Beginner Violin
When searching for a beginner violin, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you find a quality instrument that meets your needs
Here are some things to look for:
A well-crafted violin body is essential for producing good sound quality. Look for a violin with a traditional shape and size, and consider a full-size or fractional size depending on your age and playing style. A properly sized violin will be more comfortable to play and help you develop good technique.
A smooth, even neck and fingerboard are crucial for comfortable playing. Look for a violin with a well-fitted fingerboard and a straight and even neck. This will make it easier to press down the strings and produce clear, accurate notes.
Tuning pegs should be smooth and easy to turn. Look for a violin with well-fitted pegs that are easy to use. Properly functioning tuning pegs are essential for keeping your violin in tune and ensuring a pleasant playing experience.
A well-fitted bridge and soundpost are essential for producing good sound quality. Look for a violin with a securely fitted bridge and a soundpost that is properly positioned. These components play a crucial role in the instrument’s resonance and overall sound.
A good set of strings can greatly improve the sound quality of your violin. Look for a violin with high-quality strings, such as D’Addario Prelude strings. These strings are known for their durability and warm tone, making them a great choice for beginners.
A shoulder rest can help you play comfortably and reduce fatigue. Look for a violin with a well-fitted shoulder rest, or consider purchasing one separately. A comfortable shoulder rest will make it easier to hold the violin in the correct position and play for longer periods without discomfort.
Consider purchasing a violin from a reputable brand that produces high-quality instruments. Brands like Yamaha, Stentor, and Cremona are well-regarded for their beginner violins and offer reliable options to support your learning journey.
By paying attention to these factors, you can ensure that you choose a beginner violin that is comfortable to play, produces good sound quality, and will help you develop your skills as a violinist.
Understanding Violin Sizes
When I first started playing the violin, I had no clue that violins came in many sizes!
Finding the right fit to make learning comfortable and fun is super important.
For young beginners, violin sizes range from 1/16 to 3/4. These smaller versions are tailor-made for little arms and fingers. I always tell my budding musician friends that a full-size violin, known as a 4/4, is typically for players around 11 and up.
But remember, it’s not about age but arm’s length!
Here’s a quick reference table to help you match violin sizes to arm length:
Violin Size Chart Measurements
SIZE | LENGTH* |
---|---|
1/16 | 33.5 cm or less, 13 ¼ inches |
1/10 | 36 cm, 14 ¼ inches |
1/8 | 38.5 cm, 15 ¼ inches |
1/4 | 44 cm,17 ¼ inches |
1/2 | 48.5 cm,19 inches |
3/4 | 52 cm, 20 ½ inches |
4/4 | 54 cm, 21 ¼ inches |
* Length is from the neck to wrist
To measure correctly, extend your arm and measure from the neck to the middle of the palm. Or even better, visit our dedicated page on Violin Sizes here.
Always check with a teacher or a professional; they’ll ensure you get the best start on your musical journey. My first violin was a 3/4 size, perfect for learning violin basics without straining my fingers.
Remember, a comfortable violin is a violin that is played. So take the time to find your perfect size and make your violin learning experience as delightful as possible!
Selecting the Right Violins for Beginners
When I picked up my first violin, I quickly learned that the right instrument is key to a rewarding learning experience.
A great beginner violin balances quality with cost, providing the best value for my musical journey.
Assessing Your Budget for Quality Instrument
My budget is the starting point for choosing a violin. I must decide how much I will spend while considering the cost-to-quality ratio.
Under $100: Basic models, often lower in quality.
$100 – $500: Solid beginner instruments often include all the necessary accessories.
Above $500: Higher-quality violins might be a significant investment for a beginner.
Evaluating Violin Construction and Materials
When evaluating a violin, it’s essential to consider the construction and materials used. These elements are crucial in the instrument’s sound quality and durability.
Here are some factors to consider:
The violin’s body should be made from high-quality wood, such as spruce for the top and maple for the back and sides. These woods are known for their excellent acoustic properties. A well-crafted body with a smooth finish not only looks beautiful but also contributes to the violin’s sound quality.
The neck of the violin should be made from a single piece of wood and well-crafted. A comfortable neck is essential for easy playing, especially for beginners still developing their technique.
The fingerboard should be made from a high-quality wood, such as ebony or rosewood. A smooth and well-crafted fingerboard ensures that your fingers can move easily and accurately, which is vital for producing clear notes.
The strings should be made from high-quality materials, such as D’Addario Prelude strings. Good strings are essential for producing a rich, resonant sound and maintaining tuning stability.
The tuning pegs should be well-crafted and easy to turn. They should be made from a high-quality material, such as ebony or rosewood, to ensure they hold the strings in tune effectively.
The shoulder rest should be comfortable and well-crafted. It should be made from a high-quality material, such as foam or wood, to provide the necessary support and comfort during long practice sessions.
By paying attention to these details, you can ensure that you choose a violin that not only sounds great but is also comfortable to play and built to last.
Best Beginner Violin Brands
Several brands are out there, but I want to mention a few known for their quality in making beginner violins.
Stentor
Stentor violins are an excellent choice for beginners because of their reliable quality and affordable beginner violin options.
As a professional violinist, I always recommend the Stentor Student Standard Violin Outfit to my students for its remarkable consistency in quality and playability.
Proper technique development from the start is crucial, and the full-size outfit provides everything a beginner needs. It’s a great value for an instrument reliably supporting a student’s journey!
Stentor Student Standard Violin Outfit
FEATURES: Carved from solid tonewoods
OTHER INFO: Features blackened hardwood pegs and fingerboard
- Entry-level violin outfit, perfect for students
- Includes lightweight case and wooden bow with ebony frog
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Cremona
Cremona violins are well-regarded for their beautiful sound and good craftsmanship. They offer both beginners and intermediate players a delightful playing experience at a reasonable price.
Another high-quality violin I recommend to my students is the Cremona SV 130 full-size violin. Its exceptional tone clarity and ease of play are essential for encouraging proper technique and a love for the instrument.
Cremona SV 130 full-size violin
FEATURES: Crafted with a maple back and sides with a solid spruce top
OTHER INFO: Solid tonewoods produce a warm and full sound
- Comes complete with D'Addario Prelude strings
- Includes a shaped case and a Bulletwood bow
- Players may require luthier adjustments for a preferred playability
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha
Yamaha violins offer a wide range of instruments highly regarded by violin teachers and players for their high-quality materials and reliable performance.
The Yamaha AV7-44SG 4/4 Size Student Violin Outfit is a perfect violin for me!
Like I said at the start, I recommend it to violinists of all skill levels because of its high quality and reliable performance, which rivals many professional instruments.
Yamaha AV7-44SG Student Violin Outfit
FEATURES: With harmonically rich tonality, thanks to tonewoods aged for over five years
OTHER INFO: With high-quality components such as a Wittner Ultra tailpiece
- Professionally adjusted and set up with premium Helicore strings
- 4/4-size violin with a lightweight case, real Brazilwood bow, and Schwarz rosin
- Expensive as compared to other violins for beginners
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Eastman
Eastman violins are celebrated for their handcrafted quality, good materials, and rich, mature sound, providing players of all levels with a balance of playability and tonal excellence.
The Eastman SWVL100 Student Violin Outfit is an excellent and affordable option for my students. It offers a robust and pleasing tone with impressive craftsmanship for its class.
The 4/4 size outfit has the necessary accessories, making it a convenient and reliable option for new students. It’s a whole package!
Eastman SWVL100 Student Violin Outfit
FEATURES: With a spruce top, flamed maple back and sides, and durable inlaid purfling
OTHER INFO: Genuine ebony fingerboard and fittings
- Comfortable Dresden chinrest
- Includes a Despiau C bridge, Wittner Ultra tailpiece with fine tuners, carbon composite bow, and Thomastik-Infeld Dominant strings
- Higher price tag compared to other entry-level instruments
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
GEWA
GEWA violins are well-respected in the string community for their German engineering. They offer a range of quality instruments that cater to students and professional players with superior sound and playability.
In my experience, the GEWA L’Apprenti VL1 Student Violin Outfit is an amazing violin that provides an excellent foundation for adult beginners starting on a 4/4-size instrument.
It’s a reliable and aesthetically pleasing combination that consistently meets the needs of my beginner students, fostering their growth and enthusiasm for playing.
GEWA L’Apprenti VL1 Student Violin Outfit
FEATURES: A solid European spruce top and a solid European maple back and ribs
OTHER INFO: Ebony fittings, an original Aubert bridge, and a Wittner Ultra tailpiece
- Includes a hard case with built-in reflectors, backpack straps, and mega-tough bow spinners
- Comes with a super-durable, humidity-resistant carbon bow
- No Cons!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Revelle
Revelle violins are known for their exceptional value. They provide advancing students with the best student violins, boasting fine sound quality and elegant craftsmanship.
As a violin teacher, I’ve been consistently impressed with the Revelle REV25 Student Violin Outfit. Its clear, vibrant tone and playability make it an excellent choice for my students’ first full-sized instrument.
Its solid construction and thoughtful setup provide a great platform for developing technique and musicality.
Revelle REV25 Student Violin Outfit
FEATURES: Solid wood construction, with a spruce top, flamed maple back, and sides.
OTHER INFO: Ebony fittings, a Despiau bridge, a Wittner Ultra tailpiece, and an attractive nitro varnish finish
- Includes all the tools budding violinists need to master the rudiments of their instrument
- Thomastik-Infeld Alphayue strings yield pliable playability and near-gut-like tone
- Slightly higher investment for beginners
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Knilling
Knilling violins are praised for their reliability and fine-tuning stability. They offer a range of well-suited instruments for both student and intermediate players.
I also recommend the Knilling 110VN Sebastian Student Violin Outfit. It is a standout option for beginners, with its durable build and resonant sound that makes learning rewarding and enjoyable.
Its 4/4 size fits well with growing students, and the included outfit ensures they have everything needed to start playing right away.
Knilling 110VN Sebastian Student Violin Outfit
FEATURES: Seasoned tonewoods offer a richer, warmer sound
OTHER INFO: Equipped with D'Addario Prelude steel-core strings for better intonation stability
- 4/4-size violin with solid carved spruce top and solid carved maple body
- Includes rosin, Brazilwood bow, and deluxe case
- Expensive as compared to other entry-level student violins
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Scherl & Roth
Scherl & Roth violins are respected for their solid craftsmanship and good price, offering dependable instruments that are especially suitable for student and educational use.
As a seasoned musician, I find the Scherl & Roth SR51E4H Galliard Student Violin Outfit a commendable choice for beginners. Its pleasing tone and reliable construction provide a strong foundation for learning.
The outfit accessories make it a practical and attractive package for students starting their musical journey.
Scherl & Roth SR51E4H Galliard Student Violin Outfit
FEATURES: With premium tonewoods like a solid spruce top and maple back and sides
OTHER INFO: Hand-adjusted in the Scherl & Roth shop and set up with D'Addario Prelude strings, which are highly recommended for beginners due to their quality and ability to produce warm, beautiful tones.
- Offers the reliability and playability students need at a great value
- 4/4-size violin with thermoplastic case, carbon fiber bow, and amber rosin
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
New vs. Used Violins for Beginners
When it comes to buying a violin, beginners often wonder whether to buy a new or used violin. Each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Here are some pros and cons of each option:
Pros and Cons of Buying New
- New violins are often made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, ensuring a reliable and consistent playing experience.
- New violins come with a warranty, providing peace of mind and protection against defects.
- New violins are often easier to find and purchase, with a wide selection available from reputable retailers.
- New violins can be more expensive than used violins, which might be a consideration for those on a tight budget.
- New violins may not have the same character or unique sound as a well-played used violin.
Pros and Cons of Buying Used
- Used violins can be less expensive than new violins, making them an attractive option for beginners.
- Used violins may have a unique character or sound that has developed over time, which can be appealing to some players.
- Used violins can be a good option for beginners who are not sure if they will stick with playing the violin, as the initial investment is lower.
- Used violins may not come with a warranty, which means you might have to cover any repair costs yourself.
- Used violins may require more maintenance or repairs, especially if they have not been well cared for.
- Used violins can be harder to find and purchase, as you need to ensure you are buying from a reputable source to avoid getting a low-quality instrument.
Ultimately, the decision to buy a new or used violin depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you’re looking for a high-quality instrument with a warranty, a new violin may be the best option.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option with a unique character, a used violin may be the best option.
Either way, make sure to choose a quality instrument that will support your learning journey and inspire you to keep playing.
Setting Up and Maintaining Your Violin
Proper setup and maintenance are essential for keeping your violin in good working order and ensuring it sounds its best.
Importance of Proper Setup
A properly set up violin is essential for producing good sound quality and ensuring comfortable playing.
- Bridge and Soundpost: A well-fitted bridge and soundpost are essential for producing good sound quality. Make sure they are properly positioned and securely fitted. The bridge should be straight and the soundpost should be positioned correctly inside the violin to ensure optimal resonance.
- Tuning Pegs: Tuning pegs should be smooth and easy to turn. Make sure they are well-fitted and easy to use. Properly functioning tuning pegs are crucial for keeping your violin in tune and making tuning adjustments easy.
- Strings: A good set of strings can make a big difference in the sound quality of your violin. Make sure they are properly fitted and adjusted. High-quality strings like D’Addario Prelude strings are a great choice for beginners as they offer a warm tone and good durability.
- Shoulder Rest: A shoulder rest can help you play more comfortably and reduce fatigue. Make sure it is well-fitted and adjusted properly. A comfortable shoulder rest will make it easier to hold the violin in the correct position and play for longer periods without discomfort.
Basic Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance and care can help keep your violin in good working order and ensure it sounds its best. Here are some things to consider:
Regularly clean your violin to keep it free from dirt and grime.
Use a soft cloth and a gentle cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the finish of your violin.
Regularly polish your violin to keep it looking its best.
Use a gentle polish and a soft cloth. Polishing your violin will help protect the wood and keep it looking beautiful.
Regularly check and maintain your strings to ensure they are properly fitted and adjusted.
Replace strings that are worn or damaged to maintain good sound quality.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your violin remains in good condition and continues to produce beautiful music.
Where to Buy
Beginner Violins
When I started my violin journey, knowing where to buy my affordable beginner violin was crucial. I quickly learned I had two choices: an online shop or a local store.
Online Shops vs Local Stores
Online Shops:
- Shopping online allows me to browse most beginner violins conveniently from home. Retailers like Sweetwater and Gear4music offer a range of the best violins.
- I can't try out the violin in person, which makes it a bit of a gamble.
Local Stores:
- I love that local violin shops let me hold and test violins. It gives me confidence in what suits me best.
- The selection can be limited, and prices are sometimes slightly higher than online.
Trying Out a Violin
Trying out a violin before purchasing it is essential to ensure it is the right fit for you.
How to Test a Violin
Here are some things to consider when testing a violin:
Playability: Play the violin to ensure it is comfortable to play and easy to navigate. The violin should feel good in your hands and be easy to hold and play.
Sound Quality: Listen to the violin’s sound quality to ensure it meets your needs. The violin should produce a clear, resonant tone that you find pleasing.
Tuning: Check the tuning of the violin to ensure it is easy to tune and holds its pitch well. The tuning pegs should be smooth and easy to turn, and the violin should stay in tune during play.
Intonation: Check the intonation of the violin to ensure it is accurate and even. Play scales and simple melodies to see if the notes are in tune and the intonation is consistent across the strings.
Overall Feel: Get a sense of the violin’s overall feel to ensure it is comfortable to hold and play. The violin should feel balanced and comfortable in your hands, making it easy to play for extended periods.
By taking the time to test a violin before purchasing, you can ensure that you choose an instrument that is comfortable to play, produces good sound quality, and meets your needs as a beginner violinist.
Choosing the Right Accessories
Choosing the right accessories is just as crucial as selecting a good-quality violin. They contribute significantly to the ease of playing and the quality of sound.
High-quality strings, such as D’Addario Prelude strings, are known for their durability and warm tone, making them a great choice for beginners.
Learning to play string instruments, particularly the violin, enhances fine motor skills, dexterity, and academic performance while also improving concentration levels among practitioners of all ages.
Selecting a Bow
I remember picking up my first bow and immediately noticing the difference a good bow can make.
Carbon fiber bows are often a go-to for their durability and consistency, which is helpful when starting.
Wood bows, like Brazilwood bows, have that traditional appeal and can vary greatly in quality, but a well-made wood bow can provide a warmer tone that I find quite charming!
Carbon Fiber: Durable, consistent, and less affected by humidity and temperature changes.
Wood: Traditional, warmer tone, but quality can vary.
The CodaBow Prodigy for 4/4 violin is a revelation for advancing students, offering a remarkable blend of balance, responsiveness, and dynamic control that truly enhances playability and sound.
CodaBow Prodigy Student Violin Bow
FEATURES: Designed specifically to help students develop proper playing technique
OTHER INFO: High-wear components are precision-made using industry-leading composite materials to ensure a lifetime of worry-free play
- Firm action to facilitate a deep string connection that students will find inspiring
- Ultra-strong and eco-friendly Xebony frog that is stronger and more durable than natural ebony
- No Cons at all!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
The Importance of Rosin
Rosin is key to a squeak-free performance!
It allows the bowstring to have a good grip on the violin strings, creating a beautiful sound.
Every violinist needs one!
Soft Rosin: Stickier, can give a fuller sound, but might get messier in warmer climates.
Hard Rosin: Less sticky, more suited for colder environments, and can offer cleaner articulation.
The D’Addario Kaplan Rosin provides a smooth grip and excellent bow control, enhancing my playing with consistently clear and rich sound without excessive dust.
D'Addario Kaplan Premium Light Rosin
COMES WITH: Premium case that is designed for one-handed use
FEATURES: The original low-dust recipe handed down from Ladislav Kaplan
D'Addario Kaplan Premium Light Rosin
- Amazing Case
- Low Dust
- A Pleasure To Use
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Violin for a Beginner:
Last Thoughts!
Choosing the right beginner violin is a key step in any beginner’s musical journey.
I understand that all the options available can feel overwhelming, so I’ve outlined my top picks to give you a solid starting point.
Remember, a good beginner violin should be affordable and play well!
Stentor Student Standard Violin Outfit
Cremona SV 130 full-size violin
Yamaha AV7-44SG 4/4 Size Student Violin Outfit (This one is my favorite!)
Eastman SWVL100 Student Violin Outfit
GEWA L’Apprenti VL1 Student Violin Outfit
Revelle REV25 Student Violin Outfit – 4/4 Size
Knilling 110VN Sebastian Student Violin Outfit
Scherl & Roth SR51E4H Galliard Student Violin Outfit
I’m excited for you, future violinists! You’re at the start of a wonderful adventure, so cherish every moment of your practice.
Even when it’s challenging, creating music is a gift. Trust your instincts, and you’ll find the perfect beginner violin!
Before you head out…
Whether you’re a violin enthusiast or a seasoned musician, this article may be helpful. It’s about helping you navigate the market and find the violin that resonates with your aspirations and budget.
FAQ's
A good beginner violin should have a comfortable setup with proper string height and spacing to facilitate ease of playing, and it should be constructed with quality materials to produce a clear, resonant tone that encourages practice. Additionally, it should be durable and come with a decent bow and case, offering great value for money while meeting the needs of a novice without overwhelming investment.
The amount of money to spend on a violin largely depends on your commitment and playing ability; beginners may opt for a more budget-friendly option, ranging from $100 to $500, to ensure comfort and decent sound quality without a hefty investment. More advanced players or those committed to long-term study should consider investing in a higher-quality instrument, potentially between $600 to several thousand, to enhance their playing experience and sound as their skills develop.
Some of the best violin brands offering quality instruments under $500 include Stentor, known for their reliable student violins, and Cecilio, which provides a range of options that balance affordability with craftsmanship. Other notable brands, such as Cremona and Mendini by Cecilio, also offer good beginner models that deliver sound and durability for those on a budget.
It’s advisable to avoid violin brands that lack a reputation for quality and durability, often found at extremely low price points, which may indicate subpar materials and poor construction. Be wary of generic or no-name brands, especially those with prices that seem too good to be true, as they can lead to frustration and hinder progress due to inferior sound and playability.
Some of the best violin brands for beginners include Stentor, known for their reliable student models, and Yamaha, which offers consistent quality and sound instruments. Other reputable brands, such as Cremona and Mendini by Cecilio, also provide well-crafted violins specifically designed for novice players.
To pick the best violin for a beginner, look for an instrument with a comfortable feel and easy playability, with a properly fitted bridge and soundpost. It comes as part of an outfit with essential accessories like a bow, rosin, and case. Choosing a violin with good tone quality and tuning stability is also important, and it can often be found in reputable brands specializing in student-level instruments.
For a beginner violin, it’s sensible to spend between $100 to $300, as this price range typically offers instruments that are good enough for learning the basics without compromising too much on sound quality and playability. It’s important to invest in a violin that is well-constructed and easy to play, which will encourage practice and help develop a good technique in the early stages of learning.