Violin Buyers Guide
The violin has been around for many years. It is believed it was originated around the 1500's although became more popular in the 1800's due to composers using the violin in their ensembles and operas. The violin grew more popular through time. In the 19th Century the violins rise to fame continued in the hand of virtuoso violins. Today the violin has kept up with its popularity. Nigel Kennedy, Vanesa Mae and all girl ensemble group Bond have all contributed to this.
Different Kinds Of Violins
The violin is part of the string family. Other stringed instruments include the viola, cello and double bass. These are all bowed instruments and larger than the violin.
Today the electric violin is a very popular kind of violin to play. It sounds very edgy and gives a more rock vibe than the traditional violin.
Violins are available in a range of sizes.
Choosing the correct size of violin:
1/8 - For young violin enthusiasts age 3 to 5 years old with an arm length of 17.1 to 17.5 inches.
1/4 - With an arm length of 17.6 to 20 inches, this violin is suitable for children 4 to 7 years old.
1/2 - For children ages 6 to 10 years old, with an arm length of 20 to 22 inches.
3/4 - Children 9 to 11 years old with an arm length of 22 to 23.5 inches will enjoy playing this size violin.
7/8 Size
4/4 or Full Size Violin - For violinists age 9 and above with an arm length of 23.5 and up. This is the size for adults.
Can anyone play the violin?
Anyone can play the violin. It comes in all sizes so children can begin to play at an early age. Adults can also pick it up. Anything is possible with a little help.
There are a few techniques you will need to get used to when learning. At first the beginner will feel awkward due to the stance and position you hold yourself. Not only is there the violin to hold but also how to hold the bow. It will take time to master this but it will come with practice.
Is it easy to play?
It is easy to make a sound with the violin but it is knowing where to put your fingers which will make the tune. Once you know the basics you will be on your way.
What comes with a violin?
The violin comes in a suitable case with a bow included. The bridge will be down and strings loosened. Rosin will also be provided.
What else do I need?
Most violins do not come with various accessories this means the customer can select them for themselves.
Recommended
Digital Violin turner – This helps you to tune the violin up to the correct pitch by either the turner playing the note or by picking up the sound of the string and telling you digitally whether the instrument is tuned to the correct pitch.
Violin Shoulder rest – The Shoulder Rest supports the violin on the shoulder.
Elite Stringed Instrument Care Kit – Includes Rosin, Violin Polish, Cotton Cloth, Standard Cloth.
Violin Starter Kit – First Lesson Violin DVD, Digital Violin Turner, Shoulder Rest, Violin Tutorial Book, Violin Setup Guide, Violin Care Kit, Stentor Violin Strings.
Your violin will have been packed with the bridge loosened and the strings de-tensioned.
Setting the Bridge into Position
The bridge has four different sized grooves to accommodate the four different thicknesses of the strings. G being the thickest to E being the thinnest. If the bridge is uncut then first you will need to make the small grooves using a sharp bladed tool or knife. The bridge will be slightly higher on one side. This is where the G string will be positioned.
Position the bridge in an upright position, feet touching the instrument. The bridge should be placed directly between the centre of the F-holes. There are notches cut into the centre of each F-hole to use as a guide.
Now the bridge is in the correct position starting with the G string (thickest), place the strings into the relevant grooves on the bridge and carefully tighten each string by turning the appropriate tuning peg. Do not over tighten. The bridge should now be held up in an upright position.
Tuning Your Instrument
Once the bridge is in the correct position you should now be able to tune your violin to concert pitch (A440Hz). To help with this use a set of pitch pipes, piano, an electric tuner or tuning folk. Tighten or loosen each string by using the tuning pegs or adjusters until correct pitch.
Preparing the Bow
The hair on the violin bow when used for playing should be taut.
Turn the button on the heel of the bow to tighten the bow hair. As a rule, tighten the bow hair so there is a gap approximately the width of your little finger between the bow stick and the underside of the bow hair. (Do not over tighten or bow/bow hair could be damaged).
Apply a sufficient amount of rosin to the bow hair by running the block of rosin along the length of the bow hair several times. When playing the violin this creates friction between the bow and strings which in turn is transmitted through the bridge and amplified through the body of the violin.
After playing we recommend the bow hair is slightly slackened to prolong the life of the bow.
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