Don't buy a violin yet!

Strange. Why would I tell you not to buy a violin?

Sadly, there are some really bad violins out there. They're known as "violin-shaped objects" among teachers. Some of them would make great decor items but are not good musical instruments. Getting a good sound is important, and if you have an instrument that won't let you make a good sound, you're starting with two strikes against you.

Violins are for sale all over eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook, but the only way to judge the quality of a violin is to play it. An instrument for sale online is the ultimate gamble. Not only can you not tell whether it's any good, you don't know what might be wrong with it. Repairs can be expensive and will require either travel or shipping costs.

If you're thinking of buying a local violin, I'll be happy to evaluate it for a small fee. I'm not a professional appraiser, but I know whether an instrument is any good.

In most cases, though, a violin is an unnecessary expense for a beginner. Why make a commitment before you know you want to?

If the student is a child, you will need to figure out what size you need. Too many people have bought a full-sized violin for their child when the child needed a 3/4 or even a 1/2 size, and the child gives up because the instrument is so hard to handle. Renting is the solution when a child needs a smaller violin: they can change sizes and you won't be stuck with an outgrown instrument. Of course, if you have six children and you want them all to play, it makes sense to buy a smaller violin, but even then, don't buy off the internet.

I get no compensation of any kind for saying this, but I have been working with a rental and stringed instrument supply company since 1976 and they have a stellar record and good rates. Contact me and I will direct you to them. They have a flexible rent-to-own program.