Strings – violin, viola, cello

Strings – violin, viola, cello

What to look for when purchasing a student violin, viola or cello:

Sizing
  • Ensure the instrument is appropriately sized for your child to avoid discomfort.
  • This may mean the need to upsize as they grow. Ask your teacher for advice.
  • Violas can be 11 to 15 inches.
  • Violin and cello sizes vary between quarter to full size.
  • The size of cellos may vary depending on country of origin.
Instrument
  • The body of the instrument must be neat and solid construction with no cracks or open seams.
  • Ensure the strings are a good quality with a functioning winding.
  • The bridge should fit well and conform to the finger board.
  • Pegs should fit well and not slip.
  • The fine tuners need to be easy to turn and not bent.
  • The cello end pin needs to be long enough for the student to sit comfortably and the screw holds should tighten easily.
  • The tone should be even throughout the range and not muffled.
Bow
  • The wood of the bow should have good flexibility and be straight as you look down the bow.
  • The wood of the bow should have a good arch (the dip in the bow from one end to the other)
  • The hair needs to be tidy and not loose at the frog or tip.
  • The frog should not be too stiff or too loose.
  • The screw should be able to be turned easily to loosen or tighten the hair.

Cases and bags

  • The bag should be appropriately sized for the instrument.
  • The outer cover should be durable with no open seams.
  • Padded cello cases are better than canvas.
  • Ensure hinges and zippers close properly and hold well.
  • The compartments and bow holders should fasten well.
Diagram which shows the parts of a string instrument: chin rest, bridge, tuning pegs, scroll, fingerboard, F hole, fine tuners, tailpiece, bow tip and frog.

Diagram which shows the parts of a string instrument: chin rest, bridge, tuning pegs, scroll, fingerboard, F hole, fine tuners, tailpiece, bow tip and frog.

Equipment and expenses

Equipment and expenses

Once your child has committed to the music program, you need to make sure your child has all the necessary equipment they need.

Your child will be provided with a student music journal and you need to provide:

  • a tutor book for school
  • a music stand for home
  • a suitable case
  • accessories such as reeds, strings, rosin, cleaning products
  • repairs and maintenance on owned instruments.

Some schools may also charge a small fee to cover costs associated with the program.