Whether you are a parent of a child who wants to begin taking orchestra classes in school, or if someone in your family is an advancing player in need of a better instrument, at some point it will be time to search for local violins that will meet the need. In your search, you will consider a variety of details, including size, price, materials, craftsmanship, and quality of sound. A professional at a store that provides local violins can measure a child for just the right sized instrument, and can give advice relating to the needs of the individual. Of course, it is not generally necessary to purchase an instrument outright. Many dealers of local violins provide rental and rent-to-own programs for students who are either trying out the instrument, or are not yet ready to use a full-sized violin. This is a great option for many individuals. The same sellers can also provide other needed items such as a music stand, lesson books, spare strings, tuning devices, and shoulder pads. Its important to begin your hunt for local violins armed with knowledge. Any violin student should be able to get advice and input from their instructor regarding the best shops providing local violins, and what brands and types of instruments to look at. Of course, searching for local violins probably will not yield a violin that is actually made locally. Many violins are made in the United States, but even more are imported. For example, many teachers insist that their beginning students obtain European-made student instruments. These instruments are often superior in quality of workmanship and sound, while beginning violins imported from Asia are often inferior. This is important to note, as a poorly made instrument will not only sound bad; but it will also be harder to play, and even more difficult to keep in tune. Often the fittings are not of quality materials or workmanship and will not function properly, or will even break shortly after receiving the instrument. Unfortunately, when looking at local violins, its important to keep in mind the old adage, You get what you pay for. Your instructor should be able to advise you on a price range that will help guide you in your search.
