Internet v. shop?

I would recommend buying a violin from a reputable shop. For the child, the excitement of choosing an instrument can be a big part of engaging with learning and for yourselves it is much better to be able to see and try the instrument before buying it.

Shops I recommend?

I can recommend Caswell’s music shop who will have ‘set-up’ the violin so that it has had adjustments made to the bridge and soundpost to improve the sound quality and the reliability of the instrument.

What model do you recommend?

Hidersine Veracini, Cremona SV500, Primavera, Hidersine Giovanni are both very good models for beginner violinists.

How much should I spend?

I would not recommend buying an instrument for less than £200 as these instruments are often poorly set-up which can make learning to play more difficult. As a rough guide a total beginner could have an instrument between £200-£800.

Can I apply for funding if I can’t afford the costs of instruments and lessons?

Yes, there are sources of funding for children to learn music. Try this Funding Wizard tool:
https://www.helpmusicians.org.uk/creative-programme/funding-wizard

How do I choose the size?

I warn against buying an instrument that is too large as this can lead to long lasting technique problems and unnecessary aches and pains. Instead, measure the instrument by placing it on the left shoulder of the student, extending the left arm out to wrap the fingers around the scroll of the violin. When this can be done easily and with some give in the elbow, then this is the correct size. If unsure, choose smaller rather than larger. I find most shops will try to persuade buyers to get a size larger than needed so don’t be persuaded!

Hire v. buying?

Parents are sometimes keen to hire an instrument at first while their child decides if they like playing the violin. This is a good solution as long as the instrument is in good condition.

How can I check to see if the violin is good quality?

Many beginner violins have bows that a warped so look along the length of the stick to see that it is straight. Also check that the screw will loosen and tighten easily on the bow. The violin should be able to be tuned easily. It is common to have four adjusters on a beginner’s instrument to help you tune it but a poor quality instrument may have pegs that slip frequently, making it very difficult so, if you’re not confident with tuning a violin, ask in the shop for them to show you how the pegs work. They should be able to be moved easily and should hold their place so that the correct pitch is kept.