Parents Guide to Buying a Violin for Beginners
One thing I did not realize was 1. super important and 2. not a one size fits all deal is a shoulder rest for the violin. We’ve only had our daughter in lessons for a few months and we’ve already gone through two styles of shoulder rest. The one Fiddlershop sent is by far her favorite- because unlike the others that were a sponge-like wedge that we secured with elastics, this one hugs the instrument body and doesn’t slip around at all.
The rubbery foam on the bottom really lets that shoulder rest stay put on her shoulder so she’s able to better focus on her grip, which is something that’s proved challenging for her- she holds on too tight!
Watching my kids learning to play musical instruments, learning to read music, to develop that part of their brain, is truly a favorite part of parenting for me. It’s not about the successes they have while playing, but the hard work, the dedication, and hopefully also the roots of a lifelong appreciation for music and the arts in general that are so great to see.
Natalie says
These are great tips for parents who have kids who want to play violins. However, my daughter is interested in guitars and pianos. I think violins are beautiful though.
Brett says
They are really beautiful. A lot of the info can be helpful for other instruments, as you do want to make sure you are spending your money well.
Eloise says
It’s funny how when I was a kids I didn’t care much for violins then as I became a teen into adulthood I found violins to be beautiful and I really want to learn how to play one! My mother has an old one from her dad (my grandfather) and I think I’ll ask her if I can bring it in to fix/tune and learn with his (sentimental!) Maybe if I learn my kids will want to as well?! I’ll use this guide to help find a violin for my kiddos!
Brett says
Oh, what a wonderful idea! I am such a sentimental sap, I’m tearing up just reading this
Jeni Hawkins says
This is such a great post! So many kids don’t play music anymore and this would be a great way to start them.
Louise says
This is a super handy guide. I wish one of my two wanted to learn to play an instrument. Unfortunately they have very different hobbies!!
Louise x
Terri Beavers says
Two of my grandkids play instruments and another one is going to start next school year. I’ll have to tell her mom to check out your post, I think a violin would be a great choice for her.
ricci says
I never played an instrument so this post was very enlightening for me! These are all great tips!!
Lynndee says
That would be a very helpful guide for parents who are thinking about buying a violin. I love the infographic too.
Tracy @ Ascending Butterfly says
I was forced to take Violin by my school and hated every minute of it, I wanted to learn Piano, but the students were not given the choice in music class, just ‘assigned’. My mom had to get me an instrument I did not even want quite frankly and stopped playing it as soon as that class was over. The shoulder rest is great, that sure would have come in handy when I was a student!
Tracy @ Ascending Butterfly
uprunforlife says
I had to buy my daughter a flute over 7 years ago. We choose to do the rent to own so that we weren’t committed if she was done. I think it wise to rent or do a rent to own, for first and second instruments. I had know idea that violins came in different sizes and its based on your arm length.
Echo says
That is an awesome infographic! I never knew that so much went in to buying a violin!
Roch says
Nice infographic! I think learning how to play an instrument is great for a child. This teaches them discipline and how to be more creative as well. The budget is a strong consideration factor.
Dogvills says
This is a great resource for those who are buying a violin for the first time. This is an expensive instrument and you definitely don’t want your money to go to waste.
Chrystal | Nevermore Lane says
I remember what it was like when I was in band and we were to pick the instrument we wanted to play. I picked the clarinet because my cousin played it. I always wanted to learn the violin though.
Kelly Hutchinson says
So many great tips! When my daughter started playing violin, we had no idea what to look for. Thankfully, we had a great music teacher who helped us out.
Jenny says
My 2 year old loves the guitar and drums. I may just have to sign her up for some classes around here!
Joely Smith says
I have played flute my entire life – since the age of 8. I also learned drums, guitar, and took some piano. I was never good at piano. Music is so important to learn. I think it is wonderful that you are allowing your daughter the experience! If I could learn any musical instrument now it would be violin! I just love it!
You made a wonderful infographic! Who knows maybe I will decide to take lessons now!
Marcie W. says
Violin is a standard elective at my children’s school, which means all students take the course and have an opportunity to experience the instrument. These are all great things to keep in mind should one of our kids decide to take things to the next level.
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
These are great tips. None of my kids play an instrument, but a friend of mine did tell me about how confusing it was to get her son a new trombone.
Mary Edwards says
This is great information. I’m glad she was so dedicated and stuck through as I know it’s a hard instrument to learn. We haven’t bought an instrument (except keyboard for fun) and my daughter taught herself from youtube! BUT we have bought NUMEROUS sporting equipment.
your infographic is great!
Mandee says
This is a great post! I know a lot of parents don’t really know much about the violin, so it’s nice to find a post like this. I played the violin as a child. 😉
Jeanette says
My son has considered playing the violin. If he does decide to go that way I will take everything you said here into consideration. He’s got one more year before he needs to decide.