subject: What To Expect When Shopping For A Violin [print this page] If you are in the market for a violin, you may not know what to expect when you enter a violin shop. You may not know how to find the size of violin that is right for you, or if you are beginning, whether you should be looking for 4/4 violin or a violin. A good violin shop with experienced staff can help answer any of these questions and direct you to the model of violin which suits your needs and your pocketbook.
What is a 4/4 violin? How do violin sizes work? Once you know how to properly measure the player, finding the proper violin is not difficult. A 4/4 violin is a full sized model and is suitable for a player whos outstretched arm measures 23 inches or more from the breast bone to the center of the palm. Violins go down in size proportionally from there. The smallest violin commonly available is a 1/16 violin although very young children may need a 1/32 violin.
A good violin shop will help you select a bow and give you advice on what materials you should select for your rosin. They may be able to help you fit the bridge to your violin. A professional violin will have a custom-fitted bridge. This holds the strings up off the neck, and allows them to resonate properly to give good sound. A poorly fitted bridge will not give a clear sound and this can be discouraging for a new player.
A violin shop may have many different models of violin on sale. If you are using a 4/4 violin, the good news is that these are the easiest violins to find so your choice is most likely going to be the best. Smaller sizes may need to be specially ordered which can increase their price, and finding replacement pegs or other parts may also be more expensive for a smaller violin as opposed to a 4/4 violin.
A violin shop will also have a range of sheet music for you to choose from and accessories such as tuners, rosin, and a choice of chin and neck rests. These are important for you to be comfortable if you are practicing for a long period of time. Again, it can be easiest if you are looking for accessories for a 4/4 violin rather than a smaller sized instrument.
You may be able to find many of these items in an online violin shop as well as an actual store. You should look for a violin shop that specialises in stringed instruments and has staff which are knowledgeable. A good customer service department is important, as is a good return policy in the event that there are any issues or problems with the violin you purchase.
Instruction can be a great thing to find as well. There are challenges to playing a violin that are not there with other stringed instruments. By finding skilled instruction, either by video or arranging a live teacher, you have a better chance of staying encouraged and eager to learn. By choosing your violin shop carefully, you will find better service and support.
