Want to buy a violin?
Welcome, fellow music enthusiasts! If you're here, you're probably curious about diving into the world of violin playing. Whether you're a seasoned musician looking to upgrade or a beginner taking your first steps, one question is bound to be at the forefront of your mind: If I want to buy a violin, how much will I have to spend?
Let’s unravel the mystery of violin prices and find out what you can expect to pay for this elegant instrument.
The Spectrum of Violin Prices
1. Internet Violins: $100-$500
If you've done an initial search on the internet for violins, your results have likely been filled with what we call 'internet violins'. These are low cost and almost always very poor quality 'instruments' sold on Amazon, Walmart or other large websites that sell everything from hand soap to mixers to tires to jewelry. These sites aren't interested in making sure you get the right violin but in simply making the sale and for the lowest price.
These violins are often built with laminated wood rather than solid wood and also have cheap bows, bridges, pegs and other components that are not carved to the specific instrument. If this is all you can afford, you are better off saving up for a student level violin or renting a student instrument instead of purchasing a garbage internet violin. The list of brands in this category is long, but a few names are Cecilio, Mendini, Palatino, Kcelarec, Witek, Kmise, Jing Show Bussiness (yes, the mispelling is how they spell it) and so many more.
2. Student Violins: $500 - $800
Since we don't recommend buying instruments from the first level, these instruments should be your starting point and your go-to. These are designed to be affordable and durable and are almost always made of solid wood like maple and spruce (some Suzuki models use a laminate front, but they are still better quality than the first category). They are a little more than internet violins, but the tone and quality of student violins easily outweighs the squeaky sound of an inferior internet violin. From our experience, if a beginner starts on a good sounding instrument like a student violin, they are 4x more likely to continue playing as they start their musical journey. Brands like Howard Core, KRUTZ, Knilling and Eastman are good options in this price range.
2. Intermediate Violins: $800 - $2,000
As you progress, you might find yourself yearning for a better sound and playability. Intermediate violins are often crafted from higher-end materials and can offer a much richer tone. They are usually hand-carved and may come with better fittings like an upgraded bridge and fine tuners. Brands such as Scott Cao, KRUTZ, Germantown, Lord Wilton, Core Conservatory, August F Kohr, and Johannes Kohr provide great choices in this bracket.
3. Advanced Violins: $2,000 - $10,000
For the serious player or professional, advanced violins offer superior craftsmanship and sound quality. These instruments are mostly handmade by skilled luthiers and use high-quality tone woods. Expect meticulous attention to detail and a richer, more nuanced sound. Renowned makers like Vuillaume, Krutz Artisan, Hofner, Franz Sandner, Anton Krutz and modern luthiers who create custom instruments fall into this category.
4. Professional and Master Violins: $10,000 and Up
At the top end of the spectrum, you’ll find master violins and rare antiques. These violins are not just instruments but pieces of art. Prices can soar into the hundreds of thousands, depending on the maker and historical significance. If you’re looking at violins by famous makers like Stradivari or Guarneri, be prepared for eye-watering figures!
Factors Influencing Violin Prices
Several elements can affect the cost of a violin:
- Material Quality: Solid wood versus laminated wood can significantly impact price. Solid wood offers better sound quality and is usually more expensive.
- Craftsmanship: Handcrafted violins by skilled luthiers are often pricier due to the time and expertise involved.
- Age and Rarity: Antique violins and those with historical significance can command premium prices.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands with a reputation for quality often come with a higher price tag.
Budget Tips for Violin Shoppers
- Renting: If you're just starting out or unsure about committing, renting a violin can be a cost-effective option. Many music stores offer rental programs with the option to buy later and upgrade to larger sizes as the student grows.
- Used Violins: Consider purchasing a used violin. Many excellent instruments are available at a fraction of the new price. Just be sure to have it inspected by a knowledgeable technician to avoid any surprises.
- Accessories: Don’t forget to budget for accessories such as a case, bow, rosin, and shoulder rest, as these can add to the overall cost.
Conclusion
Understanding the cost of a violin is crucial as you embark on your musical journey. From budget-friendly student models to breathtaking masterpieces, there’s a violin out there for every skill level and wallet. Take your time to explore different options and find an instrument that not only fits your budget but also inspires you to make beautiful music.
Happy playing, and may your violin journey be filled with joy and harmony!