“How do I know when it is time to upgrade my violin?”
Whether it’s a player or the parent of a player, this is one of the most frequently asked questions in the Violin Shop Tampa showroom. You might think it would be an easy answer to figure out. However, you are probably so focused on personal technique and execution you haven’t asked yourself the big question:
Is the instrument working with you or is it working against you?
If you are encountering resistance from your instrument, it might be time for an upgrade. In the showroom, we often refer to an upgrade as ‘advancing to the next level instrument’. As your level of performance progresses through practice, your instrument should be responding to your advancing
technical capabilities. Changes in bow speed, articulation, pressure- we use these techniques (and more!) to shape musical phrasing. If your instrument is hindering or not communicating these changes, it is likely working against you. The technique is there to serve the music. If the instrument cannot support your advancing level of technique, the music isn’t 100% there. Are you confident your instrument is going to produce the sound
you want? As performers and teachers, each one of us at Violin Shop Tampa has been in this position. We understand that taking this step can benefit greatly from a little guidance and our team is here to assist you in determining if it is time to advance to the next level. Please visit us in store at our Tampa or Sarasota location and we will work with you on finding the
instrument that shows off your musical voice. For more information on this and other string topics, please subscribe to our YouTube channel and visit us at www.violinshoptampa.com. Until next time, Happy Practicing! Watch our video of this article here on YouTube:
