Choosing the right violin for your child

When your child is an aspiring violinist just starting with his lessons, you might feel the urge to buy him his own violin. But opting for the right violin is often a difficult choice in the absence of proper knowledge and information. Too many options can also be confusing. In such a scenario, investing too much in an instrument is unwise as your youngster might not continue with it for long due. This is why we are here with a few details parents need to keep in mind before buying a violin. 

What to check while buying a violin 
Tuning: A violin should be finely tuned with the four tuners. While buying a violin, it’s ideal to be accompanied by someone who plays the instrument in order to check the quality.  
Size: This is very important. While 1/16 or 1/8 size may be suitable for a 5-year-old, children between 6 and 9 years may comfortably play a 1/2 sized violin. Teenagers who have been practising for quite a few years can easily handle a grown-up’s violin sized 4/4.  

Types of violin  
There are three basic kids of violin: Student, Intermediate and Professional. Here is a low-down on them. 

Student violin: This kind of violin might be most suitable for your aspiring violinist. It is easy to handle though the carving and finishing are hardly as great as professional violins. These violins are made out of inferior wood and often have plastic parts such as tuning peg. These violins are reasonably priced.   

Intermediate violin: The intermediate violin, as its name suggests, is a category that falls between student and professional violins and is low in demand. However, it is helpful for parents who know that their kids deserve something better than a student violin but cannot afford a professional violin. Students who have been playing for a few years and have learned quite a few technicalities may find this type useful.  

Professional violin: Professional violins, also called master violins are ideal for pro musicians and are constructed with superior quality wood. They are usually hand built and assembled by a master luthier like Antonio Stradivari. These are only for violinists who have mastered the art and want to get their hands on something aesthetic and refined.