For many, the violin is the most beautiful and romantic of all instruments. Its melodic sounds have been known to stir emotions and provoke strong feelings of passion. Additionally, its rich history, dating back centuries, has made it a classic choice for budding musicians.
If you’re ready to learn the violin, you’ll need to make an important decision: which one should you buy? In this guide, we’ll look at five of the best beginner violins available in 2022.
The 5 Best Violins for Beginners (Comparison Table)
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Which is the Best Violin for Beginners? Our Top Picks:
So which violin should beginners go for? Depending on your budget and preference, you can choose from a variety of violins that are suitable for learners – from well-known brands to more exclusive products.
We’ve compiled 5 of the best violins for beginners.
1. Stentor, 4-String Violin (1560A)
- Finely carved spruce front
- Shellax varnish
- Ebony fingerboard and Parisian eye pegs
- Selected wood bow, ebony frog
- Deluxe oblong case
Stentor, one of the most well-known brands, offers a wide range of violins and the Stentor 1560A is a great choice for starters. It comes with an ebony fingerboard and pegs, while its bridge is made of good-quality maple wood. The Stentor 1560A also has a spruce top, making it ideal for creating a wide range of sounds.
Its Shellax varnish also goes a long way in providing a nice finish while also protecting your instrument from wear and tear. When it comes to violin brands, nothing beats Stentor’s quality. In fact, this is one of the most popular models for beginners because of its affordability, playability, and sound quality.
The spruce front gives this instrument bright tones with plenty of clarity and projection. The ebony fingerboard offers the player smooth playability while offering great durability over time. Its resistance to wear increases the longevity of the instrument.
This beautiful violin is sure to become a cherished part of any instrumentalist’s collection.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Good quality materials and construction
- Spruce top gives the instrument bright tones
- Ebony fingerboard offers additional durability and smooth playability
Cons:
- Not suitable for advanced players who require greater projection in their sound.
2. Kmise Violin 4/4 Full Size Set
- Violin Learning Set: Kmise 4/4 violin comes with 4/4 bow/a set of replacement string/nice rosin/shoulder rest and a hard shelf case, suitable for beginners and intermediate to start learning how to play
- The violin is made of all solid wood with good toughness. The solid wood body makes the violin performance produce good resonance and sound, absorbs noises, and strengthens the harmony.
The Kmise 4/4 A4111 is one of the most budget-friendly options for beginners. With each unit typically priced at $79, it is an affordable option to see if violin playing is something you really want to pursue.
Don’t underestimate the cheap price tag – this violin is also great for intermediate players, starting with the solid spruce top. This material offers a good balance between responsiveness and strength, perfect for beginners. Its maple sides and back also give it the sturdiness needed to survive the sometimes harsh learning process.
Did you know that the manufacturer of this violin is a professional violinist? With that being said, each instrument is checked and adheres to the highest standards of quality. The bridge, pegs, and fingerboard are all made to perfection with great attention to detail.
Additionally, the Kmise 4/4 is available in a variety of sizes to choose from.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Solid spruce top for bright tones and good responsiveness
- Maple sides and back for sturdiness
- Crafted by professional violinists for maximum quality
Cons:
- Not suitable for advanced players
- May require setup and adjustment to achieve optimal sound quality
- Not available in exotic colors or designs.
3. Cecilio CVN-300 Solidwood Violin
- Great Violin For Beginners: The beginner violin is an ideal stringed musical instrument for any student who has dreams of playing music. The set includes all the necessities to start learning how to play.
- Elegant Design: As beautiful as most stringed musical instruments, these violins for beginners have a solid spruce top and antique finish with inlaid purfling. Along with an ebony fingerboard, pegged chin rest, and tailpiece, it is a work of art
By far, if we’re going to rank violins for beginners, this is probably the first on our list. The Cecilio CVN-300 is a great option for entry-level violinists, featuring a solid spruce top with an antique finish partnered with an ebony fingerboard. One look, and we can easily see that it’s a complete work of art – something you can proudly show off to your friends.
In terms of playability and sound quality, this violin does not disappoint either. It has a rich, vibrant tone perfect for beginners who want to explore different genres of music. The fingerboard is comfortable and smooth, allowing the player to move around freely without any interference or issues.
Aside from the instrument itself, this kit comes with 2 bows, an adjustable shoulder rest, a rosin cake, and an extra set of strings. All the accessories you’ll need to start playing the violin are included in this package, making it worth its slightly higher price tag compared to the Kmise.
Since this is made for beginners, the kit also comes with a Mendini Violin First Lesson Book so you can learn the ropes easily and conveniently. With all these features, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular instruments for newbie violinists.
Pros:
- Beautiful antique finish
- Comfortable ebony fingerboard
- Comes with a variety of accessories and learning materials
Cons:
- Slightly pricier compared to other beginner options
4. Eastar Violin 4/4 Full Size
- The Eastar EVA-3 4/4 violin is made of spruce wood panel, maple back board and side plate with inlaid in antique varnish. This is primary practitioner friendly product, the fingerboard is inlaid with Muscovite fingerboard point, which is convenient to find the handle position quickly in the process of learning.
- Maple wood neck, pear-wood finger board, date wood chin rest and tail nail, aluminum alloy strain plate and four integrated fine-tuning tuners.
The Eastar EVA-3 4/4 violin is a perfectly crafted instrument designed for beginners and intermediate players alike. It features a spruce wood panel with an exquisite antique varnish finish, along with a maple backboard and side plate. Undoubtedly, this beautiful instrument will be loved by any aspiring violinist.
The date wood chin rest makes it comfortable to hold and play, while the ebony fingerboard gives it a silky smoothness that can help even the most inexperienced students. The masterful workmanship doesn’t end there. Each tuning know is handcrafted from high-quality wood for durability that lasts throughout your practice sessions. When plucked or bowed, this instrument will produce a warm, full-bodied sound due to its superior craftsmanship. Decorative engravings adorn the body of this beautiful violin, ensuring it stands out among its peers in any setting.
Pros:
- Datewood chin rest for comfortable playing
- Handcrafted tuning pegs for durable performance
- Decorative engravings and superior sound quality
Cons:
- Not as affordable as other beginner instruments.
5. AKLOT Violin 4/4 Full Size
- 【CAREFUL CHOICE OF RAW MATERIAL】Wood of each part of the violin is well-chosen by the luthier. Solid wood body makes the violin produce good resonance and sound, absorbs noises, and strengthens the harmony. By using crackajack wood materials matched with ingenious design of the body, we are aiming at provide an excellent violin for you to play.
- 【GOOD-LOOKING SURFACE】Top plate of Aklot full size violin is made of solid pine wood, rid and back plate is made of maple from Changebai Mountain. Semi-hand painted body makes the paint of the violin smooth but not rough, giving you a good sensual experience.
For those who are on a budget and still want a high-quality instrument, the Aklot 4/4 Full-Size Acoustic Violin is a great option. Each wooden part is crafted to perfection and finished off with an exquisite varnish – something that a beginner can easily appreciate.
The spruce top and maple sides and back give this instrument its characteristic bright, mellow sound. The fingerboard is made from ebony wood for smooth playing, while the pegs are also carefully crafted from durable wood.
With its top plate made from solid pine wood, this violin is lightweight and easy to carry without sacrificing its tone. You’ll also notice the intricate painting details, mainly because it’s semi-handpainted, giving the violin a textured look without feeling rough.
Comes with a one-of-a-kind hard case with a beautiful blue lining, rosin, an extra set of violin strings, a tuning tool, and a bow. All the materials you need to start playing are included in this kit – a complete package perfect for beginner violinists!
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Solid pinewood top for a lightweight body
- Comes with a complete package of accessories and materials
Cons:
- Not as visually appealing as other options.
Different Things to Consider When Picking the Best Violin for Beginners
Before we get into the specific brands and models, there are a few key considerations to bear in mind when looking for your first violin. When you go and purchase a piano, whether you’re an amateur or a professional, you can simply walk into a music store and pick out the one you like. With violins, it’s not quite so simple. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and you should think carefully about the following factors.
1. Size
Pianos come with a standard set of keys. Sure – some have more or fewer keys – but in the grand scheme of things, a piano is always going to be the same size, with the same number of keys, octaves, and sound range. Violins, however, come in different sizes and shapes. From ¼ size to 4/4 size, you’ll need to choose the right one for your height and arm length.
The best violin for kids who are starting out may be a bit different from the best violin for an adult who’s starting to learn the instrument.
Here’s a quick guide you can refer to when it comes to shopping for violin sizes:
Ages 3 – 5
Three to five-year-olds would have to start with the smallest size. Depending on their arm length, they could either go with 1/16, 1/10, or 1/8. These violins are ideal for kids with arm lengths that range around 14-15, 15-17, and 17-17.5 inches consecutively.
Ages 4 – 7
Older kids mean their arm lengths are a bit longer. The size 1/4 will fit them perfectly. This size should be ideal for kids with arm lengths between 17-20 inches.
Ages 6 – 10
If the new learner is around 6-10 years old with an arm length of about 20-22 inches, the size 1/2 violin seems like the perfect choice. This allows them to comfortably hold the violin and comfortably reach for the strings.
Ages 9 – 11
Tweens should go for the size 3/4. The arm length range should be around 22-23.5 inches, which is longer than kids and shorter than adults.
Ages 12+
When we move on to teens, young adults, and even adults, they’re ready to tackle the 4/4 size – otherwise known as a full-size violin. This works best for people with a 23.5-inch arm length.
The overall size of the violin plays a crucial role in choosing your first violin. Unlike other instruments, the way you hold your violin significantly affects the sound it produces. A comfortable violin is key to unlocking your full potential as a musician. You’ll notice that you’re using the wrong size when you start to experience pain or discomfort while playing.
Now that you have an idea of what size to look for let’s move on to the other details.
2. Price & Budget
Obviously, price is always going to be a factor when you’re looking for your perfect violin. You should keep in mind that just because one of them costs more than the other doesn’t necessarily mean it produces better sound.
Before you head to the store or start shopping for a violin online, decide on a budget. That way, you have a clear idea of the type and quality of violin that best fits your wallet.
3. Quality & Brand
If you’re choosing an entry-level violin, always make sure to check out both the brand and the quality of craftsmanship. Different manufacturers specialize in different materials, so it helps to be aware of the various options available.
While a cheaper violin may be appealing to new learners who are looking for something that doesn’t break the bank, it definitely pays off, in the long run, to invest in one of higher quality. Quality materials and craftsmanship will last longer and sound better. Additionally, violins are delicate instruments, and the materials used can greatly affect their playability, sound quality, and durability. The best violins for beginners should always be made from quality materials that are known to produce good sound.
4. Violin Bow
Similar to the violin itself, the length and size of the bow greatly differ depending on the musician’s arm length and size. Go for a bow with the right weight and balance – that way, you can do justice to the sound of your violin.
Aside from the length, the type of wood used in making these bows can also affect the overall sound. There are three major types of wood brands that are commonly used in bows: Carbon fiber, Pernambuco, and Brazilwood.
Brazilwood is the most affordable among the three – and you’ll see this type of wood in most entry-level bows. Brazilwood bows are usually made of topical hardwood from Brazil and are known for producing a warm, rich sound.
In terms of quality, Pernambuco offers better and richer sounds than Brazilwood. Pernambuco bows are made from a species of hardwood that’s native to Northeastern Brazil, and these bows come with a hefty price tag. However, take note that the Brazilian government has placed restrictions on the use of pernambuco wood. This is because this type of wood is now considered scarce, limiting the availability of its bows.
Lastly, carbon fiber bows have started to make an impression in the market because it comes next to Pernambuco in terms of quality. Carbon fiber bows are usually made from a composite material, and some say it produces equally impressive results as the other two, with lighter weights and better shock resistance.
However, carbon fiber can be relatively expensive, too – but it’s said that this bow type is proven to be durable. With that being said, despite its high price tag, a carbon fiber bow is a great investment for both beginner and experienced violinists. In fact, many students nowadays use carbon fiber bows, as they’re considered to be well-rounded and last longer.
How Much Do Beginner Violins for Adults Cost?
For starters, you have two options: you can rent or buy your own instrument. Many students opt to buy their own because it eliminates the need to return the instrument on a set date. Additionally, this also becomes cheaper in the long run because you won’t have to pay for the rental fees over and over again.
The price of beginner violins for adults varies, depending on the brand, quality, and where you purchase from. Generally speaking, decent entry-level violins can cost anywhere between $200- $300. Rental prices may start from $35 monthly, and this includes the bow, the case, and all other necessary accessories.
Shipping costs need to be factored in, too, if you’re shopping online.
A decent beginner violin should include the following components: a high-quality bridge, pegs that are correctly placed, good strings, and a well-crafted fingerboard. It should also have an even finish and smooth edges – both of which are crucial for sound quality and playability. Lastly, you get what you pay for – so if you’re looking for something that is of better quality and craftsmanship, be prepared to shell out more money.
Beginner Violin Kits: Is There an Advantage?
Most of the options we’ve mentioned above come with complete kits, providing you with all the necessary tools and materials you need to start playing. They’re meant to provide the convenience of making sure you already have everything you need as you start along with your journey, eliminating the need to buy accessories separately.
This has been proven to be an effective way of helping beginners get comfortable with the instrument and accelerate their progress. While these kits may be slightly more expensive than just buying the instrument alone, it’s worth noting that you’ll still be getting a great deal in terms of quality and value for money. Most of the time, people buy the wrong accessories when they start, leading to frustration and disappointment. With a complete kit already included, you can be sure that you’ll be getting the best materials for your instrument.
Aside from that, each instrument is crafted to perfection and designed for beginners. They have smooth fingerboards, so you won’t experience any issues while playing the violin. This feature is an important aspect that beginner violinists should consider, as it can make all the difference in the quality of sound produced. The learning curve for playing the violin is already steep, so having a reliable instrument with these features can help you progress faster. That’s why investing in a beginner kit is worth every penny.
When looking for your first violin, always remember that quality and value should always come first. Don’t ever settle for something low-quality or second-rate – it’s only going to hinder your progress and cause disappointment.
Final Thoughts
When looking for a beginner violin, it’s important to consider quality and value. The best violins for beginners are those that are crafted with precision and come with all the necessary materials you need to get started. Most of the time, beginner kits include everything you need to start playing the violin – something that can be extremely helpful as you’re just starting out.
If you’re on a budget, don’t worry! There are plenty of affordable options available that still offer high-quality instruments. We’ve listed some of the best-valued kits above, giving you a good benchmark for comparison as you shop around. Good luck with your search, and have fun!