How to Buy a Fiddle

Finding a high quality fiddle or violin at a reasonable price can be difficult. If you're starting to play and don't want to spend much money on an instrument, look for used instruments from local vendors, student quality instruments or instruments that local violinists want to sell. Get a warranty and customer support to go with your instrument--not just a case and bow. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Visit local instrument shops first. They can offer you continued support after the sale. Plus, you can try out an instrument before purchasing it.

2. Talk to local violinists who play in symphony orchestras or give lessons. Violinists often have student quality instruments from their own learning years or from students that they have taught. Contact local musical groups to get in touch with violinists.

3. Make sure that you know what is included with the instrument. You'll need at least a case and a bow, but other items like extra strings or instructional materials can be helpful for beginners if an individual seller is willing to add them to your purchase.

4. Avoid online auction sites like eBay. You may find an inexpensive violin, but it won't come with any kind of support beyond the return policy. You also may receive a product that isn't what you expected. Even if you want to take up the fiddle as a beginner and don't care about the quality, cheap auction options can cost you more in the long run because of limited support and resale value.

5. Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for a good beginner instrument, whether student quality or just used. Individual sellers may ask for more depending on the quality and level of use of the instrument.

Resources

• A selection of new and used folk instruments