Step 1: What Size Violin Do I Need?

Children may need to start with a smaller-sized violin and then upgrade in size as they grow. Playing a violin that is too big or too small can lead to discomfort and hinder their learning progress. Violin size is based on the scale of a full-size violin, with a full size marked as 4/4, and the smaller ones may be as small as 1/32. Similar to clothing tags, violins have a label indicating their maker and size inside the violin. You can see it in the f-shaped holes on the top of the instrument.

To determine what size, measure the student's arm extended straight out from neck to mid palm and then use the size guide below to pick the perfect size.

Step 3: Select The Perfect Instrument  

Violins can range in price from $50.00 up to millions. Whether you are renting or buying, quality should be the focus when choosing a musical instrument. Remember, there are some great quality student instruments, and then there are some violin-shaped objects, and often, they are priced similarly. So, it's crucial to prioritize quality over price. 

Buying a violin can mean considering many details you may have yet to consider, including tonal colors, long-term resale value, and more. But don't worry, you're not alone in this process. Work with your music teacher to walk you through selecting the perfect instrument. If you cannot work with a music teacher, the next best thing would be a good-quality music store. Depending on the owner's experience in the string instrument department, general music stores can do an excellent or poor job selecting good quality violins. A luthier is a specialty violin maker who makes a stringed instrument.  Their quality and understanding of instruments are typically significantly better than those of a general music store. I would recommend starting there. 

Violins are often categorized into two types: Student Grade and Hand Crafted. Student-grade instruments, made by machine, are an affordable option. Hand-crafted instruments, made from quality wood and taking months to complete, are a higher-end choice. Each violin will sound different. String instruments, especially hand-crafted ones, often hold or build value over time. With some effort, you can sell your instrument for what you paid, providing security in your investment. 

While I am not affiliated with any of these music stores, there are a few that I have worked with for years and would highly recommend:

Rentals:

Sharmusic, Southwest Strings,  

Luthiers:

Preferred Luthiers List

Step 4: Violin Finger Tapes

I always recommend students get violin finger tapes put on their instruments before starting lessons. These stickers go on the instrument and guide your fingers where to go. They are especially helpful for beginners as they provide a visual reference for finger placement, making it easier to learn the correct positions. 

Step 5: Violin Accessories

Violin accessories are items that we use on a daily bais in conjuction with playing the violin. There are some that are essential and others that you might find playing more enjoyable. See Full List:  Essential Violin Accessories List 

Step 2: Decide to Rent or Buy A Violin

 There are many things to consider when choosing a musical instrument. When you first get started, it may be a good idea to rent a violin until you understand what you want in a sound, then purchase it later. 

Instrument rentals can be as affordable as $5.00 per month, making it a budget-friendly option for those starting out. Rentals are typically based on the instruments value, and condition. Some music stores even have higher end great quality instruments which are perfect for the adult learner. Most rental programs offer a rent-to-own option, allowing you to rent the instrument at a percentage of its value until it is fully paid off.