12 things to look for when buying an antique violin

The allure of an old violin is something that resonates with all string players, and there are 12 things to look for when buying an antique violin. Who may have played it, where has it travelled, how many notes have been played on it, how many generations has it been passed down and what could it possibly be worth? Antique violins can be worth millions of dollars although that is rare, it is more likely that they will require extensive ongoing repairs in order to keep them in good playing condition. The attribution, sound and condition are the key factors to keep in mind when shopping for an antique violin. What are the 12 things to look for?

Cracks or issues with the violin
Look of the violin
Check the finger board alignment
Look at other attributes like bridge and tail piece
Check the pegs
Is the violin overall clean?
How does the violin sound?
Check the violin strings
Does the violin come with a bow?
Does it come with a case?
Does the violin have any markings or certificates of authenticity?

It is tempting to think that since you have a friend, family member or colleague that has an old violin laying around that they are willing to part with or sell you for cheap that this will be a good deal or that it is fate that you get this violin. Sometimes it can work in your favor but more often there is a reason that a violin remains silent and is in need of repair. Where should you go for advice, who do you trust and who can help you determine if this old violin is worth the effort and expense. Sometimes you can get a great deal and knowing what to look for improves your chances of realizing that possibility. Below are some key points to ponder when considering the purchase or restoration of an antique violin.

Here are the 12 Things to Look For When Buying an Antique Violin

1. Look over the violin very carefully, check the body for cracks. Cracks are often costly to repair properly as the instrument will need to be taken apart by an experienced luthier to be done properly. Some cracks are common and do not devalue the price of the instrument significantly if repaired properly, others can devalue the violin by half even if repaired. The back cracks are any bass bar cracks, soundpost cracks on the back and top, any crack that connects to any payt of either f hole and of course any cracks around the neck area especially the button of the back plate. Small scratches and scuffs do not usually devalue the violin as much but they will still need to be repaired which will cost a little so keep that in mind.

2. The way that a violin looks often affects how the player engages with the instrument. The more beautiful it appears to the player the more likely the player is to actually play it. A violin should be attractive to its prospective player this is especially true with beginners as much determination is made visually and there just needs to be a connection there.

3. Check the fingerboard, it should be made of ebony and should be well glued to the neck, straight, smooth and have the correct projection height to the bridge. An unglued, cracked or worn fingerboard may have to be repaired or replaced and this can cost from under one hundred dollars up to three or four hundred dollars depending on the quality and quantity of work that is necessary.

4. Check the bridge, it is placed correctly, is it straight or is it bending forward or backward. Do the feet fit the top of the instrument, are the string notches spaced correctly and does it set the string height at a comfortable height from the fingerboard. Bridges can be replaced quite easily by most any violin shop at a cost from fifty dollars up to three hundred pricy shops. Check and make sure that the violin has a soundpost and that it is a good position.

5. Check the pegs, do they all appear to be of the same material and are they all the same basic size and shape? Do they all turn smoothly or do they feel tight, loose or inconsistant when you turn them? Are the shafts of the pegs very large or are they normal size. Replacing pegs is a standard repair and prices will start at around $100 per set. If the holes are too large or there are cracks in the peg box area then the cost can go up quickly for a proper repair. When the hols become too large then a procedure such as bushing may be necessary and this can easily exceed $500 to repair and replace the damaged pegs.

6. Is the violin clean or does it have old rosin powder all over it? Cleaning of old rosin is difficult and should only be attempted by an experienced luthier as many of the cleaners of rosin will also remove varnish and this will definitely affect the value of the violin. Most shops will clean old rosin for a minimal fee and know what chemicals to use in order to not hurt the varnish.

7. Play the violin, how does it sound to you, this is the most important part. If you can’t play yet then ask someone that does to help you. Listen carefully, does the sound speak to you? Do you like the voice as this is very likely the most critical aspect of choosing a good violin as it is one that you will enjoy the sound of.

8. Check the strings, do they look new or are they old, thin and corroded or are they even older gut strings. Strings are fairly inexpensive and should be replaced with a decent quality new set. You can not judge the sound of the violin if the strings are old and worn out. A good set will start at around $20 and can go up to$150 for a professional set.

9. Does the Violin come with a bow? The bow hair should be loose and the screw should turn easily. Sight down the bow with one eye, does it appear to be straight and does it have the correct amount of camber? Check the head of the bow for cracks in the wood and in the tip plate (the white part that the hair goes into). Check the frog is it missing pieces, have cracks or any issues. Does the bow have leather and silver or whale bone winding? A bow can usually be re haired for a minimal charge but any other issues can be costly to restore. If the bow is valuable or sentimental then it is worth doing, if not consider looking for a new one.

10. Does the violin and bow have a case? Does the violin and bow fit easily yet snugly into the case? Do all of the zippers, latches work? Does it have a sturdy handle and good straps and is it easy and safe to carry. Cases are much like purses or luggage, do you want to be seen carrying it or is it shabby and cheap looking?

11. Does the violin, case or bow come with any old paperwork, receipts, appraisals or authentication papers? Ask about any history of the violin, where it was purchased and for how much, where it was played, who owned it before the current owners. All of this information will help you to determine its value and its age

12. Keep in mind you that cases can easily be replaced for not too much money. Accessories such as chin rests, tailpieces and shoulder rests can also be replaced fairly often and will not cost that much either. Never let the fancy pegs, case or fitting on the violin lure you away from the most important aspect which is the sound.

12 Things to Look For When Buying an Antique Violin Conclusion

While some of the above issues may be easily fixed and without too much expense. If the instrument or bow has many things needing repaired it could add up to more hassle and cost than the instrument is worth. Of course you may well find a great antique, with no work needed, provided so you know what to look for. If you have already bought a second hand violin and it appears to be in good condition try fitting it with a quality set of strings. This is one quick and relatively cheap way of making an instant improvement to its sound and playability.

When considering the purchase of antique violin, it is wise to think through the above points. Know what you are prepared to take on and how much work and expense that you are willing to spare to bring the instrument up to a good playing standard. Always ask your local violin shop to review the instrument for necessary repairs if you are unfamiliar with the scope of work needed to make it a healthy playable instrument. Many shops will do this evaluation at no charge. You can also inquire about a verbal appraisal to help you determine the value of the instrument. Knowing the value and repair charges can help you determine if this old violin is right for you. While you are there play some of the instruments in that price range to help find what else may be available within a similar price range. You may also be interested in knowing when to upgrade your violin at the right time!