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12 things to look for when buying an antique violin

Violin Shop Talk — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 23:32:04 +0000

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!

Looking to Buy a Violin?

Violin Shop Tampa Offers many great instruments at various price ranges. We provide the ability to purchase online, anytime, anywhere!

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What is the Best Age to Begin Violin Lessons?

Juliette C — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 12:44:02 +0000

There is no perfect age to begin taking violin lessons. It is no doubt better to start young in order to get an early start; however, many teachers agree that three years old is the youngest age that a child should be when starting violin lessons. If the child is any younger, they will likely not be old enough to benefit from music lessons. It is recommended and advised that you should delay enrollment until your child reaches four or five years of age but there may be a few aspects to consider before enrolling your child into violin lessons at a young age. Those include:

Lessons are not structured at younger ages
Lessons are more considered games than actual lessons
Your child must have a good attention span
Your child should have good patience
Always wait for your child to show curiosity or interest in the instrument

The Best Age to Begin Violin Lessons May Require Games

Before your child starts attending violin lessons at the ripe age of three or four, you may want to consider the possible disadvantages early lessons may bring, as well as if they will be beneficial to your child at all. At a young age, the lessons would consist of musical games as opposed to any structured lessons. This is because introducing a rigorous curriculum at such a young age may be ineffective or even produce counter-productive results; the child could develop a feeling of resentment towards the instrument if forced upon at a very early age. You would also have to acknowledge that your child may not be ready; here are a few aspects to examine in your child to determine if they are prepared to begin violin lessons.

Lessons at a Young Age Require Attention and Patience

An important quality that your child must possess prior to starting violin lessons is an appropriate attention span. Although lessons may start at only thirty to forty-five minutes, your child will need to focus for a prolonged period of time. Some children will be able to sustain the required amount of attention by the age of three, while others may not be ready until age five.

Another trait that should be developed before starting music lessons is patience. Learning the violin will certainly take time, and your child must have the patience to endure the process of learning an instrument. Learning the violin will not come with instant gratification, some children may become frustrated because they want to get into the more interesting and entertaining part of music immediately. Your child must have enough patience to persevere through the early learning until lessons become “fun.”

Best Age to Begin Violin Lessons at a Young Age Requires Passion

Although it is not essential, it is highly recommended that you do not enroll your child into violin lessons until they have displayed a curiosity or interest in music or the violin. This is critical in keeping your child engaged in their lessons. If they are not passionate about the violin, they will not reach their fullest potential, and will likely grow to loathe attending their lessons if forced at an early age.

Best Age to Begin Violin Lessons at a Young Age Conclusion

The general consensus between violin teachers on when to begin violin lessons is that it depends on your child’s capabilities rather than their age. There are many components that factor into the decision on whether or not your child is ready to start attending violin lessons. And if you believe that they possess the necessary interest, attention, and patience to start their musical training then it may be time to start searching for possible teachers and begin lessons.

What is the best age to begin violin lessons? This is difficult question to answer but the obvious answer should be as soon as they express interest and have the attention span to soak up what is being taught. A good instructor that is attentive and receptive while teaching is your best first step. You can also leverage these parental practice tips to help your child along!

Need a Beginner Instrument?

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What size Violin do I need?

Violin Shop Talk — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 01:51:07 +0000

Updated 1/28/2023
Are you looking for the right size violin? Most adults and pretty much anyone over five foot tall will play on a full size violin which is also called a 4/4 size. If you have smaller hands or shorter arms than an average adult then you may need a smaller violin. You will need to be able to determining what size violin you or your child may need. Don’t worry you are only a couple paragraphs away from knowing how to pick the correct size.

The Violin is made to eight standard sizes. The size corresponds to the length of the body of the violin. The neck and scroll of the violin are simply built in proportion to the body of the instrument so this is not necessary to measure. The smallest size is named a 1/16 size and has a body length of 9 inches. Each size increases slightly and are named 1/10, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, 7/8 and finally 4/4 or full size (about 14 inches .)

Measuring Your Body for the Right Size Violin

The right size violin can be determined by the right type of measurement process. Have the player sit or stand upright, point one arm out their side and turn your palm to the sky, measure from the neck to wrist. The measurement chart below should help you determine what size you will need. If in doubt always go with the smaller size as this is much more comfortable than slightly too big.

VIOLIN SIZE	LENGTH (Neck to wrist)
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

The best way to make certain is with the help of a private teacher or an experienced violin shop. Most violin shops will have a great trade in policy so that you can simply move up in size at very little cost. When buying a violin make sure that the bow and case are sized appropriately for the instrument.

Need a Beginner Instrument?

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6 Tips for Buying the Best Beginner Violin.

Violin Shop Talk — Mon, 18 Jan 2021 22:33:26 +0000

Finding the best beginner violin is start of your musical journey, it should be enjoyable, educational and an exciting experience. Creating music is one of life’s gifts to yourself and the world. Being informed and educated will allow you to make the best decision for the best price. Once this hurdle is crossed you can begin to play music and benefit from the many improvements that it can bring to you or your child’s life.

1. Materials and Workmanship for Your Beginner Violin

The price of a violin is usually determined by two major factors, the quality and cost of the materials and craftsmanship. A quality violin is made from solid materials, spruce, maple, and ebony. There are many plywood and laminated instruments available and although they are more durable than solid wood they do not produce the warm rich tone that are provided from violins that are made from solid carved wood can provide. The better the violin sounds the more likely you will continue to play it, so its best not to go for the cheapest option while picking your first violin. Try them side by side, you should be able to hear the difference. Most beginner violins are factory made by hand to insure a good quality sound, more advanced violins are made by one individual maker from start to finish. A maker of violins is often called a luthier which roughly translated to “Maker of Lutes” an earlier form of string instrument. A violin made by the hand of a luthier usually takes around 200 hours and is rather costly for a beginner.

2. Find the Correct Size for the Player

Finding the perfect size violin is extremely important. Adults use full-size violins, also called “4/4.” But children will need a violins that is proportional to their body size. The wrong size instrument can create serious issues and lead repetitive strain injuries as well as the development of bad technique. It is always better to play a violin a little smaller if in doubt, avoid thinking that you will grow into it.

There are 7 common sizes of violins. The largest of the sizes is called full size or 4/4 and is usually played by anyone that is at least five foot tall. Each size of violin decreases roughly one inch in body length. It is best to ask an experienced violinist, your teacher or any staff at a reputable violin shop to help you find the right fit.

3. Price Range and Quality

The price ranges of beginner violins can vary but ideally you will want to spend anywhere from $500-$600 for the complete outfit. An Intermediate violin usually starts around $1,500 and will be a more dynamic instrument capable of producing a wider range of tonal color and volume at the musicians request. Professional violins can cost several thousand dollars up into the millions for a piece of antiquity. How much you should spend you your first violin is an entirely personal choice, our advice is spend as much as you can without breaking the bank.

Beginner Violin Outfit Model V51

Solid carved spruce top with maple back and sides
Ebony peg, finger board and chinrest
Comes with carbon fiber bow
Comes with violin case

4. Shop in store or buy online for your Beginner Violin

Shopping online is easier but make sure that you have done your homework and know exactly what you are going to get. Some online violins do not come ready to play and require some setup and adjustment just to be playable. Read reviews and ask questions as to the return policy and trade in options as you will want to upgrade this beginner violin soon and do not want your initial investment to go to waste. Shopping for a violin in a Violin Shop can and should be a great experience. Most shop owners and team members are musicians themselves and love to share their knowledge and passion with their clientele. Developing a relationship with your local shop will save you much confusion and heartache as your musical ability grows. Often Violin Shops have a great trade in policy which allows you trade any violin purchased with them in for up to 100% value toward a bigger or better instrument.

5. Should I rent or Buy?

Renting a beginner violin is a great option to get started. The up front cost is not as high as an outright purchase and it can give you time to make sure that this is something that you are going to stick with. If you decide that its not for you then you can simply return the rental, you may not get the money paid as rent back but its a a better alternative than having a violin that you paid full price for but no longer play. Check with your local instrument shops to discuss rental rates and policies. Most Violin Shops also have a rent to own option that is not that much more expensive that purchasing it outright but will allow you the option to build equity and also trade the violin in.

6. Strings and Accessories

The quality of strings on the violin should not be underestimated. Strings to a violin are what an engine is to an automobile. The best sound is usually achieved with Perlon Core Strings, its a type of nylon that produces a warmer, richer tone and they have very good stability which means that the violin will stay in tune longer without the need to tune as often.

Choosing a bow is a very personal choice, there are many options to choose from. For a beginner we usually recommend a Carbon Composite bow with real horse hair as they usually outperform a wooden bow of similar cost and are much more durable. As you advance in your ability you may want to try wooden bows made of a special wood named Pernambuco as this has been the wooden bows of choice for centuries of the worlds best violinists.

Rosin is also important, without it the violin and bow will not make any sound at all. In the beginning you do not need a fancy or expensive rosin, a simple inexpensive rosin will work. As you advance you can pick up some different types of rosin and will be able to hear the difference that they make. The final piece of the puzzle is the case, most beginner instruments will come with an inexpensive case that does just fine in protecting and carrying the violin and all of its accessories. As you upgrade your violin you can shop for better cases.

Take your time, educate yourself, ask questions to your local Violin Shop and Teacher, there are lots of violins to choose from. Let us know if you have any questions.

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