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Monica
New member
Username: Violinmama
Post Number: 1
Registered: 04-2010
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, April 29, 2010 - 12:57 pm: | |
Hello everyone. I'm planning to have my 10 year-old try these two violins.
She's been playing for almost 2 years at school and has a private teacher. She's got a great ear and is very musically inclined (she also plays piano). I see her playing in MS and most probably in HS. I'm in shock that I've been paying for a rental all this time--time flies.
Will the Virtuoso last her through high school? Is there a huge difference between Artist and Virtuoso? Or would one only see the big difference crossing over to the Soloist?
I read a lot but I know nothing. Any tips are greatly appreciated! |
Man
Senior Member
Username: Manwong
Post Number: 1398
Registered: 07-2006
Rating: 
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, April 30, 2010 - 12:18 pm: | |
Welcome to the forum, Monica.
I have a couple kids around the same age as well playing the violin for roughly 4 years now (and going thru quite a few violins) -- and I learned to play some alongside them as well although I've fallen well behind them now (due in part to lack of practice, etc).
Anyway, my guess is there probably won't be quite that much diff between the Artist and the Virtuoso -- although I've never tried them for myself. I'd recommend shooting for the best you can reasonably afford whether that's the Virtuoso or the Soloist unless you don't think your daughter will stay interested. If your daughter loves the violin and will likely keep at it thru high school, I'd definitely suggest shooting for something in the range of the Soloist (or at least the Maestro) instead.
You might also want to check w/ Stringworks to see if they have any used Soloists on sale for a better value. SW seems to have such pretty often. And if you daughter doesn't mind that, she might be better off w/ a used Soloist instead -- probably won't need to wait for it to "open up" for one thing, and you'll have a better idea how it'll sound/perform for the long haul because of that.
FWIW, my kids (and I) currently all play vintage (Juzek) instruments that are all older than me,  and they sound great. We do also have a few-year-old used SW Maestro cello sitting around waiting to be played -- and the Maestro (at least the cello) is quite nice and has its share of fans amongst SW customers.
Hope that help some...
_Man_
Just another amateur learning to paint w/ "the light of the world".
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Man
Senior Member
Username: Manwong
Post Number: 1399
Registered: 07-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, April 30, 2010 - 12:22 pm: | |
One other thing though.
Moving up in the quality of violin will likely also need moving up in the quality of bow (and strings too) to be used as well to make the most of it. So when you consider your budget for this, don't neglect the cost of a quality bow (and the strings) too.
_Man_
Just another amateur learning to paint w/ "the light of the world".
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Monica
New member
Username: Violinmama
Post Number: 2
Registered: 04-2010
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, April 30, 2010 - 12:55 pm: | |
Thank you! Good point about getting a higher level used one vs. "waiting" for it to open up.
I'm concerned about good service from a local luthier, so I'm also checking out a local shop in our area (Perrins Violins, near Baltimore, MD). They were friendly over the phone and mentioned an Eastman 205(@ about $800) as a possible match, but highly recommended going out and trying different instruments. They have 1 week trials.
Any idea what would be the "comparable" model in the SW line?
If it's reasonable, then I might get the violin from the local shop, and just the bow (pernambuco) from SW. Their pernambuco bows started at $400...
Wow, you must be all prodigies!  |
Man
Senior Member
Username: Manwong
Post Number: 1400
Registered: 07-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, April 30, 2010 - 03:21 pm: | |
Hahaha... No prodigies here AFAIK.  Just a (more or less) music-loving family  -- and this dad who seems a tad obsessed w/ this stuff. 
RE: a SW comparable to the Eastman 205, my guess is the fairly popular SW Maestro is probably comparable.
RE: the bow, the relatively inexpensive Johann Krausch bow is pretty good and seems to be an excellent value. I like it and still occasionally use mine although I've switched to a CodaBow Classic (that I picked up at a bargain price off eBay).
_Man_
Just another amateur learning to paint w/ "the light of the world".
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Cellopop
Senior Member
Username: Curtis
Post Number: 3211
Registered: 11-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, May 03, 2010 - 01:41 pm: | |
If your child is taking private lessons and is more than likely going to get involved in other than school venues, string camps and programs, I would shoot for at least a soloist. I purchased a Michael Todd II when my daughter was 10 and needed a 4/4 instrument. We traded in the Crescendo cello.
We also checked out Doetsch and Klier instruments which were comparable, maybe a little less expensive but good instruments. The MTII won us over though. Her teacher was very impressed with it also. All are worth a look. I think the 305 would be more in line in quality. Also a popular student instrument.
I've seen posted pics of the Maestro instruments and they sure are gorgeous instruments. I've also read some very positive reviews. I think its quality would probably do pretty well in the more advanced school years.
All in all, purchase the best instrument that will fit your budget.
If your in Baltimore, you can take a ride over to Brobst violins or Potters violins too. They have a good selection of student instruments, but if you have been renting from SW, I fully understand wanting to take advantage of the applicable fees. SW is also a class act that will provide excellent customer service if needed.
Another thing, the Brazilian made bows are an excellent value. You can check them out at Johnson Stringed Instruments online. They will send you up to 3 at a time for a week for trial. They also have a good selection of instruments. Fortunately for you, shipping, strings, bows, cases etc. etc. are less expensive than cello.
All the best. |
Monica
New member
Username: Violinmama
Post Number: 3
Registered: 04-2010
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, May 05, 2010 - 07:38 pm: | |
Thank you both! I truly appreciate your help as I feel very lonely in this "musical journey"...
I was renting from a local chain called Music and Arts--I didn't know better. They were very pushy and wanted me to purchase their $1200 violin (Otto Benjamin) but couldn't explain anything didn't know anything about violins. When I refused, they were very rude. I returned my rental right away, refusing to do any business with them. It's a pity that so many parents rent without knowing anything.
I got a loaner from the band teacher at school but need to get her a violin promptly. I'll check out the other two stores you suggest. I'll report back.  |
Monica
New member
Username: Violinmama
Post Number: 4
Registered: 04-2010
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, May 07, 2010 - 11:04 am: | |
Following your advice I e-mailed SW about a used Maestro and they happened to be reconditioning one they just got. They'll be shipping it over next week. They didn't have photos but I'm told it's a "dark brown varnish, with very intensely figured maple throughout."
It seems to me that for about $1000, I don't have many choices. I checked out the prices at JSI and they seemed a bit pricier than SW--they had the Eastman 305. I looked at Brobst and I can't afford those.
I found a local store called Lashof Violins (MD). I'm hoping to visit them this weekend. They offer the following within the 800.00 to $1200.00 range:
Includes suspension oblong case and strong brazilwood or composite bow
* 1/4 to 4/4 used older German hand made violins from the early 20th Century to modern.
* 1/2 - 3/4 Laschevere
* Lachine #100 - Lashof Violins exclusive
* Century Strings
* 1/2 - 4/4 German c 1920
* 1/2 - 4/4 Medio Fino by JTL c1900 French
* Paesold model 802
* Gliga Vasile-Romania 1999 also known as Enesco
* 1/4-3/4 Rudolph Doetsch
* 1/4 - 4/4 Eastman models - 200, 300, 305, 315
* Ivan Dunov by Eastman Strings
Do you recommend checking out any of these? If nothing else, I want to see if they're friendly and can be "my local store" for any repairs or adjustments.
Thank you!!
Thank you! |
rachel berlin
New member
Username: Cellorachel
Post Number: 9
Registered: 11-2007
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, May 09, 2010 - 04:57 am: | |
I do know the Doetsch is considered a very solid student instrument. With a Doetsch violin, you would probably be able to trade it in almost anywhere. |
Cellopop
Senior Member
Username: Curtis
Post Number: 3212
Registered: 11-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, May 09, 2010 - 06:39 am: | |
Paesold is reputable, Gliga I've heard mixed reviews but mostly set up problems after purchasing via internet. Other than tha, they can be ok instruments. Eastman, I'd stick with 305 on up if you're going with a 4/4 and can have it for a while. If its fractional, you can go with lesser quality. Doetsch is a a good instrument.
Dunovs are ok.
You are not obligated to purchase from the local guy. They'll be happy to charge to for work performed should you need it ;)
I would still consider the SW instruments.
Take your time and do it right. You're off to a good start by asking and not guessing. |
RPD
Junior Member
Username: Pops
Post Number: 12
Registered: 03-2010
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, May 09, 2010 - 01:31 pm: | |
Thank you Cellopop. In helping Monica you have helped me somewhat regarding the 1980 Paesold that I have. Never been played. I put new Dominants on it and reserving it for use in orchestra this fall if I feel confident with my playing enough. My instructor uses one, and I rather like the mellow sound throughout and it projects nicely. Should be appropriate enough I am hoping.
Very recently a Doetsch 4/4 came up for sale on Craiglist here locally starting at 1200 and then reduced to first 800. That one used in the orchestra where I want to start. Think I found it valued at 1880. Monica doing it right. Challenging when inexperienced and such a major purchase. |
Monica
New member
Username: Violinmama
Post Number: 5
Registered: 04-2010
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, May 11, 2010 - 12:10 pm: | |
The SW Maestro is on its way. I sure hope it works out. I'll update you next week.
Thanks for the hand holding... |
Monica
New member
Username: Violinmama
Post Number: 6
Registered: 04-2010
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, May 19, 2010 - 08:20 pm: | |
The quest for an intermediate/advanced level violin continues...
We had our used Maestro for about a week. To our untrained ears, it sounds beautiful. It's got a very dark varnish and my daughter didn't like that at first. But she's getting used to it.
Today our violin instructor finally tried it out and said I "could probably do better for that price range"... Imagine my disappointment!  She said it would last her through middle school, not high school. [And after I read the thread again, that is what you have said. Generally, you've said go for "Soloist" or Eastman 305.]
She's a very demanding teacher (no chit chat) but well-trained (Peabody graduate). She said it had opened up but had some more to go, but didn't know how much more. She suggested I leave the case open and leave it in front of the TV or the stereo to help open the violin. [We did it tonight and my daughter swears it sounds slightly different already.]
She thought the pernambuco bow had "good quality wood" -- which I take means "great" by her exacting standards! But thought it was a little heavy.
Can anyone tell me if the Soloist is worth a try? $1,400 (+180 bow) seems a little too much for a 10 year-old to carry on the school bus. I have until next week to return the Maestro to SW. I think I'll keep the bow.
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Man
Senior Member
Username: Manwong
Post Number: 1403
Registered: 07-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, May 21, 2010 - 12:34 pm: | |
Monica,
If the jump to a Soloist is too much for your current budget -- and there's the concern about potential damages, etc. -- you can always wait until your daughter outgrows the violin before doing a trade-in upgrade (or even buy w/ possible reduced trade-in from somewhere else).
Afterall, your daughter probably doesn't actually need something better yet, especially if she cannot tell the diff herself. What would probably be good is if she can try something better and compare for herself. If she doesn't notice any real diff (and neither does her teacher in hearing her try them out), then she should be fine w/ the Maestro for now.
Remember, you do get 100% trade-in value for the first upgrade w/ SW -- even for a used instrument IIRC as long as you bought it from SW. But do give SW a call and get additional thoughts on this (and confirmation about trade-in's).
RE: the bow, I'm a little surprised that the teacher thinks it's a little heavy. I thought the JK is a tad on the light side myself (though I'm certainly no expert on that) -- I'm assuming you're refering to the JK. Of course, bow preferences are probably as subjective as they come, and maybe the teacher has a strong preference for lighter (or maybe somewhat different bow balance).
Also, I've definitely never heard of leaving the case open for the violin to be exposed to the TV or stereo being helpful in opening up its voice. That one sounds to me like it's coming completely "from leftfield" -- again, not that I'm an expert or anything like that of course.  Well, I suppose I could sorta imagine how that *might* help, if it can get your daugther to practice more, but otherwise, the notion sounds rather dubious to me -- well, maybe leaving it open and exposed to moderately dry air in general might help ever so slightly, but otherwise...
_Man_
Just another amateur learning to paint w/ "the light of the world".
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Cellopop
Senior Member
Username: Curtis
Post Number: 3219
Registered: 11-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, May 22, 2010 - 10:03 am: | |
Monica. no offense, but even a Peabody teacher can get a little screwy. Maybe she can engage the violin in some deep heartfelt conversation to sweeten up the tone a bit. Maybe yell at it so it will project better.
PLAYING will open it up and the aging of the wood may help a bit.
Don't leave a violin laying around with the case open EVER. You are asking for accidents and cracks when the temp and humidity changes. I've seen enough of that. Then the owner thinks it was poorly made.
Unusual for someone to think you can do better in that price range but to each their own. Instruments are very personal.
My daughters teacher thinks her MTII is about the best she's played in her price range. Julliard MM, heading to Rice for her doctorate. Again though, she's bent on the 38 dollar Andrea Bang rosin, and it may be good, but so is 10 dollar Kostein or 6 dollar Hill. Teachers can get pretty opinionated. None are more right than the other. Just opinionated.
Look at the Karl Klier violins. Really a nice instrument. As far as the cellos, a step up from the Doetsch. Both good.
We checked out both. The MTII won although about 20% pricier.
I think a Soloist will compete nicely. The didn't have the european soloists at that time.
Cellorachel is right. Doetsch and Klier are popular in many shops and might be a little easier to trade in since they are not exclusively made for any particular company like SW.
Are you looking at 4/4 intsruments? If that's the case, than buy the best you can afford. Don't worry about your sons age. The better the instrument, the longer it will be before having to go through this again.
Also, if he is going to be on the bus and there are some instrument breaking bullies on board, get a hard case. Something he can whack up side some bullies head without doing damage to the instrument.
Jay Haide is also becoming the big new kid on the block. Try one from Johnson Strings or Ifshin violins if you are on the west coast. Heard many good things about them.
All the best. |
StringDad
Senior Member
Username: Stringdad
Post Number: 315
Registered: 02-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, May 22, 2010 - 01:13 pm: | |
I'm really not endorsing it, mind you, but seems to me I'm remembering something about exposing the violin to sound waves kind of makes it vibrate (o something) like it is when its played and thereby helps to "open" the violin up (but I'm skeptical). In any event, the whole notion of a violin opening up at all is controversial anyway, although it does seem to happen (could be other explanations...player learning how to play that specific instrumetn to obtain optimal sound, etc.). Definitely leaving a violin out is a scary proposition. My daughter left her violin open in its case for ten minutes on her bed and (somehow) her metal music stand fell over and (it could have been much worse) gouged the edge of her violin (never went as far in as the purfling)...ugly..and now it has to go off to the luthier for a checkup and a fix-me-up...for that...and a corner she knocked off (again)...and ...and....yeah, in the case...
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Cellopop
Senior Member
Username: Curtis
Post Number: 3223
Registered: 11-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, May 23, 2010 - 06:22 am: | |
I don't think ambient sound waves would help much, however, this may be a possibility. It is a more direct vibration.
http://www.violinman.co.uk/Acoustic%20Enhancer.htm
I don't put a lot of stock in this either compared to playing. I also cannot condone leaving an instrument unattended uncovered. |
Monica
New member
Username: Violinmama
Post Number: 7
Registered: 04-2010
Rating:
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, May 23, 2010 - 03:55 pm: | |
Hi everyone,
I contacted SW and was told that I should definitely try the current Maestro model which "would give an increased level of performance." I had a 2007, they said this one is very different. So we're giving it a try. They were out of the Soloists. (Any advice on how to ship back?)
BTW, they charged my credit card during the 1st week of the trial. They didn't make it an issue and will refund it, but if anyone is considering their 14-day trial, please make sure you ask all your questions.
I'll also make appointments at two of the local shops and try other models too. I'm in the Maryland/DC area. We are looking for a 4/4--I would not be out "shopping" otherwise! Curtis, I agree with you, I'll have to bite the bullet and get it over with this time around. Buying a car is so much easier!! 
I could get her a hard case, for all those good reasons!  But I'd rather not because they are sooo heavy and they call too much attention to her instrument ("hey, that thing must be expensive..."). I want her to be low key, not show off, if you know what I mean.
Oh, the instructor is not so bad. But I get your point. She thinks my daughter could have more fun and enjoy the instrument longer if the tone was better. And she's totally open to trying the newer Maestro model, she said the more we try the better. She's offered to help us look locally too.
As to musical treats for the violin. No worries, the instrument is very well protected. I only did it one day for a couple of hours and had it on a safe table next to a stereo. No monkeys jumping on the bed or anything like that!! We're treating it like a little baby, with lots of love and care.
Thank you all again! I've never seen such a dedicated group where people follow up with concern. Most threads I've consulted (for other issues) somehow end with an "open" post with lots of questions unanswered. You must be special...
"The Quest" -- to be continued next week. Stay tuned! |
Cellopop
Senior Member
Username: Curtis
Post Number: 3224
Registered: 11-2005
Rating:
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, May 25, 2010 - 05:17 pm: | |
Monica. Well, the teacher is certainly right on by saying your daughter will get more enjoyment and life out of a violin that has a better tone. Its really hard having a budget, but we all do and have to do our best by living within it. Especially in todays economic climate.
I would suggest trying to pack the violin exactly the way it came. Ask SW about insurance for the return trip. It may be insured through them already, but it pays to ask.
Purchasing online is hard when returns are involved.
The Maryland/DC area is chock full of shops, so do compare. Its good of her teacher to help out as long as she is actually shopping around too and not involved in gratuity kick backs. Many are and many are not. There are mixed reviews on how ethical that is.
Hopefully the newer Maestro will live up to SW's claim to have better tone. Only you and the teacher can decide that.
Meanwhile, you can also compare with your other local shops.
Don't forget to budget for a bow. The Arcos Brasil line is a real bang for the buck.
SW, an excellent company whom I'm sure would love to sell as many instruments as they can never complained about posters recommending other shops. They really seem to care about the consumer having a good experience regardless of where they buy and look forward to us commenting on our comparisons.
That's why I was really happy to be able to purchase 2 cellos from them.
As for being a dedicated group, what goes around comes around. You'll be passing your experiences on to the newcomer too some day. |
Monica
New member
Username: Violinmama
Post Number: 8
Registered: 04-2010
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, June 02, 2010 - 03:17 pm: | |
We got the new Maestro and her teacher thinks it's a superior instrument. She played it for me today and you can really tell the difference.
But my daughter doesn't like it! She got used to the previous one (2007 used Maestro)--which, of course, she didn't like either when she first tried it because it was 'so dark.' We've asked her to give it a chance and keep playing it for another week and then decide. We feel she has to be happy with her violin so she can enjoy it.
Hopefully this 'loyalty' to the two-week violin will go away as she plays the new one (2010 Maestro) exclusively. Her teacher thinks she'll have more fun and it'll last her through high school. So I think our search stops here and move on to just enjoying our nightly after dinner concerts.
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Cellopop
Senior Member
Username: Curtis
Post Number: 3229
Registered: 11-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, June 07, 2010 - 06:04 pm: | |
Hey! Thanks somebody for the 5 star vote!
Monica. Sure. You're daughter's opinion really does count. Glad you and her teacher like the upgraded Maestro. I do remember a couple of years back when they said they were revamping the lines and making improvements. Guess they meant it, huh?
I was seriously thinking on trying the Gyorke cello for an upgrade but since my daughter, although still taking lessons and loving the cello, has decided to pursue piano (which she also plays very well) we will just keep the MTII and start looking at Steinway, Mason Hamlin, Yamahas and Knabes. We really do need a grand now. Better action than an upright.
Oops. Sorry to hijack the thread. All the best with the purchase. If you're not locked into that budget, you could always try the Soloist. European made with ......well...soloist qualities.
The Romanian wood is gorgeous.
Keep in touch. |
Monica
New member
Username: Violinmama
Post Number: 9
Registered: 04-2010
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, June 10, 2010 - 07:20 am: | |
Well...
My daughter is adamant about keeping the used 2007 Maestro. After much drama (with tears and all), we decided to let the "10-year-old" decide what she wants. I'm going to have a hard time knowing that we could have done better, but perhaps it'll hold us through our next violin (I cringe at the though of doing this all over again...).
My daughter also plays the piano, and *adores* her piano teacher. So I think that in the long term, she might end up pursuing piano as well. But since they are not as portable, I hope she keeps playing violin for a longer while.
So I guess the "technically better" violin lost when the 10-year-old came and picked the other violin.
So here's my newbie advice, based on this experience:
--If you're shopping for an intermediate violin, I *highly* recommend the current 2010 Maestro. Even as a new violin, it sounds great, so it'll be wonderful once it opens up.
--For those upgrading from a cheap rental (like we did), just pick an intermediate violin (e.g. Maestro). Just get it and don't agonize over it like I did. In the end, it doesn't matter. If they keep playing, you're going to have to do much better that the under $1,000 violin anyway!!!
--For anyone considering a rental for your school-aged kid, buy instead. If your kid is playing for at least a year (i.e., doesn't drop out in the middle of the school year) then you should rent. You'll keep forgetting to return the rental and will end up paying what I paid for the Maestro!!
P.S.
Cellopop and Manwong, I'd give you all 10 stars if I could, I really appreciate your advice and hand holding.
Cellopop, my younger daughter (8) wants to play the cello next year!!! We're trying to convince her to try the viola (a little more portable and affordable. I'm not asking, I'm just going out and buying her a viola (she refuses to play the violin, since her big sister plays...).
Manwong, looks like I'm doing this all over again in a few years... but maybe then we'll move up one or two steps up. |
Monica
New member
Username: Violinmama
Post Number: 10
Registered: 04-2010
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, June 10, 2010 - 07:33 am: | |
One more thing.
They didn't have the Soloist now. Anyone considering a Soloist, sign up for it now because it sounds like they are sold by the time they arrive at SW.
I'm staying put for a while dealing with a preteen before I do anything else... |
Man
Senior Member
Username: Manwong
Post Number: 1404
Registered: 07-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, June 11, 2010 - 11:42 am: | |
Very glad to be of help, Monica.
Yeah, you never know what the kids will end up choosing. And since they're the ones playing, they must ultimately be happy enough w/ the choices -- and you just have to "pick your battles" w/ stuff like that.
I too had to do quite a bit of convincing w/ my recently-turned-12-yo daughter about violin and bow choices among other things like joining the youth orchestra and going to string camp. In most cases, she eventually gets it -- though she's still not very good about taking better care of the poor violin -- but getting her to appreciate orchestra and going to string camp have definitely been tough ones. She certainly likes/wants to play violin, but she's also particular about what she likes and doesn't like and doesn't care much for orchestra (or committing any part of her summer to string camp).
My slightly younger son has been much easier going in that regard -- even though there was a time when he wanted to quit violin and try something else like cello instead -- although getting him to practice regularly can still be like pulling teeth at times.
And soon enough, we'll also have our #3 to work on wrt an instrument and lessons. She seems to love music more than the other 2 (when they were her age) and has been going after whatever instruments she can find since early on. Not sure yet what she'll settle on for an instrument, but it may well be violin at first. She's not quite ready for lessons yet though, but maybe in 1/2 year or so when she turns 4. But since she's been going after our violins/violas and bows, I did try teaching her how to hold a bow once recently -- and I might go ahead and pick up one of these foam VSOs to teach her violin and bow holds:
http://www.swstrings.com/catalog/showAccessoryGroup.jsp?groupId=PMP&subcategory= Violin
Only thing is I'm not sure if she'd go for it w/ practicing violin/bow holds w/ something that can't make any sounds. And we don't have a small enough actual violin (and bow) for her -- I think she's just big enough for 1/10 size, but would probably be more comfy w/ 1/16, if she was actually playing already.
Anyhoo... enough about my own kids...
But yeah, you probably don't need to fret over the first purchase of this intermediate level instrument -- the diffs probably aren't quite enough for that, and you'll eventually need to upgrade either way, if she gets very far.
As for your younger daughter, I guess you could have her try viola first, but if she really loves the cello, you probably should just go w/ that. It's hard enough to get kids to practice, play well, etc. even if/when they like playing music. You don't want to compound problems by forcing her to go w/ an instrument she doesn't like vs one she does like/love. She will go much farther on the instrument she loves -- and you may just end up wasting valuable time (and $) forcing the other way, especially since 8-yo is not exactly early to start on a bowed string instrument.
Yeah, cello is more expensive than violin/viola, but the lessons (and time/opportunity spent) will probably cost much more in the long run. Try renting the cello from a good shop first to make sure she does like it, and then commit w/ a purchase. Depending on how long you rent the cello, you may accrue enough credit to make it worthwhile to favor buying from the rental shop -- assuming it's a good shop of course.
In fact, if you want to let her try cello, you might want to try renting for the summer, if that's possible, before deciding what to do next at the start of the next school year -- at least up here in the Northeast, rentals during the school year tend to be cheaper if you commit for the full school year, so it seems better to have a clearer idea/commitment by the start of the school year and use the summer for short trials. That's what I was going to do w/ my son before he decided to stick w/ violin.
Also, I'm guessing a violin-plus-cello duet would be nicer than violin-plus-viola (even though I do like all 3 myself ) -- and in the long run, your older girl may end up switching to viola herself (as many do).
Hope that helps a bit more...
_Man_
Just another amateur learning to paint w/ "the light of the world".
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Monica
Junior Member
Username: Violinmama
Post Number: 11
Registered: 04-2010
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, June 22, 2010 - 07:59 pm: | |
This last in!
We kept the new Maestro in the end. It was torture, but I insisted one last time, after I had already packed it to send it back to SW. Thanks to FedEx, who had me wait an extra day to set up my FedEx Ground account, I changed my mind...
I had done all that work in researching an instrument that sounded very good and was faced with "preteen" reasoning--I don't want what you all want me to do, you're trying to "control my life." So I pushed again, figuring she'd forget all about it soon, and that's exactly what happened!
Thanks for all the viola/cello tips! :-) I'm currently checking out other violin instructors and just found one that teaches viola/violin. (I'll look for the right place to post and ask for advice there.)
Happy summer to all,
Monica |
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