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Purchasing the right violin can be time consuming and costly. If you are willing to do some basic research, it can be fun too!
First, decide how much money you want to spend on a violin. If you are buying an instrument for a child, take their level of commitment into consideration. If they like to play the violin but do not seem that committed, purchase a less expensive instrument. On the other hand, if your child is very enthusiastic and plays the violin frequently, than spending more money on a violin would be appropriate.
Next, contact any music stores and instrument dealers in your area. Dealers generally carry higher end instruments and music stores carry lower end ones. Ask them if they carry instruments in your price range and set a date to view them. Most stores and dealers will have several violins that are the proper size and in the right price range. Calling in advance gives them a chance to prepare the instruments to be played.
A music instructor or a store employee should help you determine what instrument size you will need. You should try a handful of instruments so you can compare tone quality, sound, and volume. It is important to try instruments from different time periods and different countries. Most reputable businesses will let you take several instruments home for a week or two so you can determine if the violin is right for you. While you have the instrument at home, play as much as you can. You really want to feel comfortable with the sound of the instrument before purchasing it.
Before you make the purchase final, take the instrument to a different dealer or music store and ask for their opinion. Some dealers will give you a free appraisal. You want them to tell how you how much the instrument would be worth if you had to replace it. If you do not make this clear, they might tell you how much they would be willing to pay for the instrument. This price will be lower than the price you are going to pay for the instrument because they would be selling it later to make a profit. If you feel like you are paying a fair price, purchase the instrument.
Choosing an instrument might take several weeks so be patient.
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