How to Choose the Right Violin for Beginners
Choosing the right violin is an important decision for any beginner violinist. There are many factors to consider, such as size, material, and style. The wrong violin can make it difficult to learn and progress, while the right violin can make learning easier and more enjoyable.
Here are some tips on how to choose the right violin for beginners:
Consider Your Size
The most important factor to consider when choosing a violin is size. Violins come in a variety of sizes, from 1/16 size for very young children to 4/4 size for adults. The right size violin will be comfortable to hold and play, and it will allow you to reach all of the notes on the fingerboard easily.
To determine your violin size, you can measure the distance from the base of your neck to the center of your palm. This measurement is called your "arm length." Once you have your arm length, you can use the following chart to find the right violin size for you:
| Violin size | Age in years | Arm length (INCH) | Arm length (CM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/32 | 2-5 | 14 and smaller | 35 and smaller |
| 1/16 | 3-5 | 14 | 35,5 |
| 1/10 | 4-5 | 15 | 38 |
| 1/8 | 5-6 | 16 | 42 |
| 1/4 | 6-7 | 18 | 47 |
| 1/2 | 7-9 | 20 | 51 |
| 3/4 | 9-11 | 22 | 56 |
| 7/8 | 10+ (adults) | 22 | 57,5 |
| 4/4 (full size) | 11+ (adults) | 23 | 58,5 |
Ensure that you can comfortably wrap the curve of the scroll with your left hand, maintaining a slight bend in your arm.
Choose the Right Material
Violins suitable for classical music are typically crafted from high-quality wood. The use of select woods plays a crucial role in affecting the richness, depth, and quality of the sound that the instrument produces.
Classical violins often use maple wood for the back, sides, and neck, and spruce for the top. Maple is favored for its hardness and density, providing a sound that’s bright and clear. Meanwhile, spruce, being slightly softer, exudes a resonant, warm, and mellow tonality.
There are a variety of other woods utilized in violin craftsmanship like rosewood, mahogany, and ash. While these lesser-used materials can offer different tonal qualities, for a true classical sound and feel, traditional wood selections like maple and spruce are preferred.
Select a Style that You Like
Violins come in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern. The style of violin you choose is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the look of a traditional violin, while others prefer the more modern look of a carbon fiber violin.
There are also different types of finishes available for violins. Some violins have a natural finish, while others have a colored finish. Again, the type of finish you choose is a matter of personal preference.
Set a Budget
Violins can range in price from one hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping for a violin. This will help you narrow down your choices and find a violin that you can afford.
Try Before You Buy
Once you have found a few violins that you are interested in, it is important to try them out before you buy, if possible. This will allow you to see how the violin feels in your hands and how it sounds.
Get a Professional Opinion
If you are not sure which violin is right for you, you can always get a professional opinion. A violin teacher or luthier can help you choose a violin that is the right size, material, and style for you.
Choosing the right violin is an important decision for any beginner violinist. By following these tips, you can find a violin that you will love to play for years to come.
Join Our Course with Any Violin
Whether you're just starting out or you're a more experienced player, our online violin course is designed to help you learn and improve your skills. And the best part is, you can join our course with any violin. We'll teach you how to get the most out of your instrument, no matter what your budget or skill level.
I hope this helps!
