Violin and Fiddle Buyer’s Guide
Ready to start your violin or fiddle lessons in the Boise, Idaho area and need an instrument?
The easiest way to get started on the violin is usually by renting an instrument from us at Campfire Music Collective, or from another local reputable source. By starting out renting you not only see if you’re ready to make the commitment to purchase a violin, but you can also ensure you’re playing the right sized instrument.
However, if you’ve been given a violin or can’t wait to get your hands on an instrument of your own, read on for some tips on how to make sure it’s sturdy, comfortable, and ready for fiddling!
The Basics
Step 1: Find the right size
If you take a peek inside the “f-hole” of a violin, it should have a label with a size (1/2, 3/4, etc.). Nearly all adults play a full-sized (4/4) violin.
Kiddos are a different story. It’s important to size them so the instrument won’t be too heavy and so they can reach all the notes without stretching. Here’s how to fit your kiddo for an instrument. As mentioned in the video, err on the smaller side if it looks like you’re in between sizes.
Step 2: Find an instrument with solid construction
Violins have sneaky imposters called “Violin Shaped Objects” or VSOs. While seemingly a good deal financially, VSOs are practically unplayable due to their poor construction. And, while violin is basically the coolest instrument, it is on the challenging side when you’re just starting out. You want to make sure your instrument is working with you in your early days of learning. Here’s how to spot the dreaded VSO.
Once you can suss out an imposter, shopping for a used instrument is often a great way to go. Older violins usually have aged wood, providing better sound for a fraction of the price. Watch Craigslist or Marketplace for instruments in need of a good home. Here’s a used violin checklist to give potential instruments a thorough evaluation. Remember, bridges, strings, bows, and cases can be replaced — above all you want a structurally sound, playable instrument.
If you’re looking for a new instrument, purchase from a respected local store (no, not Hastings…). If you prefer to shop online in your jammies, pick a reputable retailer like Shar or FiddlerShop. Be sure to check out the clearance section for lightly used or B-stock instruments — these are always an amazing deal! Or, shop for well known violin brand like Franz Hoffman through Amazon.* Below are our recommendations for solid beginner models in the most popular sizes.
Violins We Recommend
Full-Size and 3/4 Size Violins
WE RECOMMEND
1/2 and 1/4-Size Violins
WE RECOMMEND
Accessories
Now that you’ve selected an instrument, you’ll want to buy some accessories!
Shoulder Rest
We could (and should!) write an entire page on shoulder rests alone, but here is short version: find something comfortable and adjustable. Some players prefer a tiny sponge, while others prefer a more molded model (this said, those that are often *not* a great fit or often fall off the violin are Kun, Muco, and Resonans). We’ll now give you a smattering of student favorites and hopefully you can try out a variety until you Goldilocks your way into the perfect fit. Again, make sure you match your shoulder rest to the scale of your violin.
WE RECOMMEND
Everest Adjustable Shoulder Rest
This student fave stays put on the base of your instrument.
Player’s Economy Foam Pad
Cheap, easy, comfortable.
Wolf Forte Secondo Violin Shoulder Rest
Angie’s longtime fave — highly adjustable, even for long necks.
Bonmusica Shoulder Rest
The mother of all ergonomic rests.
Bow
A carbon fiber and horsehair model will give you top-notch tone and playability. Be sure to pick a bow that matches the scale of your violin.
WE RECOMMEND
Case
You will want a case with suspension padding to protect your violin’s most delicate components. Handy models with a pocket for music and shoulder rest storage are ideal.
WE RECOMMEND
Strings
Change em’ every year and keep an extra pack as a backup. Be sure to the set to match the scale of your violin.
WE RECOMMEND
Tuner
A tuner is oh-so-very important for a fretless instrument!
WE RECOMMEND
Cleaning Cloth
You will also need a cleaning cloth to remove said rosin.
WE RECOMMEND
Rosin
A fresh cake is best (under a year old) and dark rosin is nice and grabby in Boise’s dry climate.
WE RECOMMEND
Still have questions about buying a violin?
Next Read:
Create a safe and comfortable space to leave your instrument out and get into your practice groove!
Ready to play some music?
*Campfire Music Collective is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon offers a small commission on any products purchased through affiliate links at no additional cost to you. Your purchases help support our work in bringing you quality music resources beyond in-person instruction.