How to Acquire a String Instrument

As a beginner, it can be a good idea to rent an instrument, since purchasing can be expensive and appreciating the differences between one make/model and another is subtle. 

Whether you are buying or renting, be sure to find someone you trust to help point you in the right direction!

Tips from Autumn England, string teacher

  • "Best option is to rent or purchase an instrument from a music shop. I would recommend Perrin violin shop or Menchey’s Music. There are staff at the shops who can help students find the correct size instrument and help them choose an instrument at a good value for their price range."
     
  • "If a student is looking at purchasing and instrument on the internet, talk with their teacher before purchase. If buying off of Facebook marketplace, EBay, or Craigslist, it’s best to go along with a teacher to see the instrument before making a payment."
     
  • “When the quality of the instrument is very low, it is difficult to play and will break easily. They are often almost impossible to tune, the wood is of low quality, the original strings will need to be replaced. The bows also will just fall apart and need to be replaced. A $100 cecelio instrument will last one year tops before it just falls apart and will need to be replaced.”