by Adam Fletcher

Created on: June 07, 2009

When it comes to buying instruments, especially violins, more expensive does not always mean better. You can get a very clear and sharp playing violin for cheaper than a one whose sound isn't as crisp. The most important things to look for when it comes to choosing a violin are the following: size and measurements, manufacturer, tone or loudness, age, materials used to make it, and lifetime.

*Size and Measurements: The violin needs to be the correct size for the individual. You don't want a violin that is overly large or too small, make sure someone sizes you up. Arching of violins also becomes a factor. High arching results in less power or loudness and a more flat arch will deliver more power.

*Manufacturer: Probably the most important thing to take into consideration. You most definitely should talk to people and research about trusted violin manufacturers. Buying a product from them will surely be a wise investment. Remember, the biggest or most popular manufacturer doesn't always have the best violin for you. Each person's violins are accustomed to their needs and wants; so telling a sales rep what you need, and what you will be using the violin for, will definitely help you.

*Tone or Loudness: When one hears a violin for the first time many adjectives may come to mind. Some of these may be: sweet, fluid, clear and gentle. However, what you need to focus on is power. When I write power I mean the ability of the violin to make loud and resonating sounds. Violins are one of the few instruments that direct the music toward the musician and not outwards to an audience for example. Now if you only plan to play the violin for yourself, friends or family and not in an orchestra this is not very important.

*Age: As I mentioned before wood is the greatest factor to the quality of music created by the violin. As the violin ages the wood hardens. When the wood hardens it makes the violin more resonant or rich in sound. The sound waves are reflected more and not absorbed as much as with a softer wood. However, it is important to note that cracks and past repairs affect the sound. So, if you happen to want an older violin make sure there are as few cracks and past repairs as possible.

*Materials: There is no greater influence on the quality of the music your violin plays then the wood. Most violins are made of spruce, maple, ebony, boxwood or rosewood. An important thing to remember is that you should check if the purfling is real. Purfling is a decorative inlay that runs around a violin, but not at the corner edge. It is located before the edge. This inlay can stop an edge crack from going further into the body.

*Lifetime: If you follow these points then the violin should have a long lifetime. It is a good idea to tell the store or sales representative what you're going to be using your violin for, and if they can give you a lifetime expectancy.

I hope this article helped you and good luck in your future violin purchases.

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