How do you get started…

Down below you will find a list of equipment, books and places to get all the things you need to get started with your very first lesson. Please contact Celine for any further comments or questions.

Where can I get my instrument?

The important thing to remember is size matters. If you are looking for a younger student to start (ages 6-12) you might want to think about renting the instrument first. Especially if it’s smaller than a “full size” instrument because there is a good possibility they will grow into a larger instrument. For violin they measure by fractions i.e. “1/16, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 and 4/4 or Full”. For viola they measure in inches (11”-16.5” ). Most places will help with the sizing. Please refer to list below on how to do sizing based off how you get your instrument.

In Store Options

If you decide to visit our wonderful local music stores they should be able to help you find a size you will need. They will also have many of the items listed further below if you should decide to purchase them.

Online Option

When it comes to purchasing an instrument online it can be a hit or miss. Depending on where and what your budget is. I don’t recommend this but whether you purchase through amazon or even find something on Craigslist please make sure you get the right size and it comes with everything (4 strings and bow at the very least) also that it isn’t cracked or damaged. To measure size I would make sure the players fingertips can wrap around the scroll while in “playing position", which is where the player stretches their arm out parallel to the ground palm up and measuring from the neck to the fingertips. You can also take a tape measure and measure from neck to fingertips.

Violin

INSTRUMENT SIZE ARM LENGTH

1/8 = 16in

1/4 = 18in

1/2 = 20in

3/4 = 22in

4/4 (Full) = 23+ in

Viola

INSTRUMENT SIZE ARM LENGTH

11” = 18in

12” = 20in

13” = 21 1/2 in

14” = 23in

15” = 24 1/2 in

15.5” = 25in

16” = 26in

16.5” = 27+ in

What do I need for my first lesson?

Now you have your instrument you’re almost there. Below are all the things you need and some alternate options. Always double check the descriptions on some items that you are purchasing what’s right for your instrument (size and instrument). Some of the equipment you can get at a local store although supplies may vary, I linked each item to Amazon for easier navigation.

Equipment

Most of the time the violin/viola comes with strings already on it, but it is good to carry extra in case one breaks. Below are links to my favorite string brands to use, you can’t go wrong with any of them. Rosin also may or may not come with your instrument, if not there is another link below. Also shoulder rests are important for players ages 10+ anyone smaller or younger don’t need them right away (or you can make one out of foam or just use a rag with a rubber band for both), again a link to my favorites. For most of these items make sure you get the correct sizing and instrument(I am linking “full sized” violin items below). Also make sure if your violin/viola needs a loop strings or ball connected strings. The links below are ball connected.

Strings Violin*

D’Addario Prelude

Dominant

Stravilio

*You can find the same brands for viola, always double check.

Rosin - Used for the bow to help grip to strings (try not to touch bow hairs with fingers).

Sherman’s

Dark Hill

Shoulder Rest - You could also use a rag or make your own out of foam .

Everest

Wolf Forte