String Along 2.0
  • Home
  • String along
    • Schedule
  • About
    • Teachers >
      • Shirley Helmick
      • Bree Lewis
      • Erica MacArthur
      • Anna Schaad Montgomery
    • History
    • Praise
    • Media
    • News
  • Resources
    • Guide to Purchasing an Instrument
    • Events
  • Ridgecrest Youth Symphony
    • Quarantine 2020 Practice Challenge!
    • Merch
  • Contact

Guide to purchasing an Instrument

Correct Instrument Size
To find out what size instrument is appropriate for your child, Google [Your instrument] Size Chart and click view images to see which sizes go with the appropriate age and arm length. It is always best to err on the smaller side, as an instrument that is too big will hinder playing ability and comfort, much like if you were to send your child to soccer practice with cleats that are 3 sizes too big.
 
Renting & Purchasing Advice
A good quality instrument is important in terms of tone and sound quality, but more importantly for staying in tune and staying in tact. Please do not buy violins from Amazon. We recommend staying away from the Internet all together unless you shop at a recommended shop. They are often cheap and end up costing more in the long run, as they often have to be sent back to a string shop to get worked on because they won’t stay in tune, or the bridge is not set correctly, and the strings are low quality and sound twangy.

***Colored or sparkly instruments will not be allowed in performances. If you have a colored instrument, a wood colored one will need to be purchased or rented for concerts.

Many reputable string shops often have wonderful trade in programs that are economical, especially for families of young children who start lessons on very small sized violins. 

Lastly, the best advice is to involve your violin teacher when shopping!

Recommended String Shops
Shar Music and Kennedy Violins are two online shops that are reputable and trusted by teachers throughout the U.S. Even their most affordable instruments are great quality and priced well. Both rent and sell instruments. Mention Bree Lewis-Fennell at Kennedy Violins, and they will give you 10% off.

What OUR PARENTS ARE SAYING

Picture
This is an amazing group of music teachers and young musicians!!!!  Michelle Findley, Parent & Musician

    STAY connected!

NEWSLETTER
Photo used under Creative Commons from judy dean
  • Home
  • String along
    • Schedule
  • About
    • Teachers >
      • Shirley Helmick
      • Bree Lewis
      • Erica MacArthur
      • Anna Schaad Montgomery
    • History
    • Praise
    • Media
    • News
  • Resources
    • Guide to Purchasing an Instrument
    • Events
  • Ridgecrest Youth Symphony
    • Quarantine 2020 Practice Challenge!
    • Merch
  • Contact