How to Buy a Violin Fiddle, DIY guide quality economy best deal used instrument, by Ryan Thomson

Ryan's web site - http://www.captainfiddle.com The Fiddle and Violin Buyer's Guide - by Ryan J. Thomson, 32 pages, 8.5" by 11", comb bound, soft cover, illustrated, includes: a detailed discussion of each part of a violin; locating good instruments; choosing between a new or used violin; selecting the proper bow; determining the quality of construction; selecting an instrument by its sound, buying on eBay vs buying from a dealer, special section on how to buy a left handed violin, more. DIY guide. ISBN 978-0-931877-11-7

Reviews of The Fiddle & Violin Buyer's Guide:

American String Teacher's Association (ASTA): "It does provide a handy introduction to the world of instrument dealers and the process of selecting an instrument. Thomson adds references to standard periodicals and resource guides, catalogs, and articles, reproduces photos of violin labels, supplies, and the like. He describes basic equipment and gives diagnostic tips for spotting the problems underlying a buzz in the fiddle.

"Tennessee Folklore Society: "Now the area of greatest need for this book obviously would be with all the beginning fiddlers. Also, the intermediate violin students who have reached the point where they feel they are ready for a better instrument will find the advice contained here to be invaluable. In addition, I feel that a lot of the knowlegeable ("old pro") violin makers and players who know exactly what to look for in a new or used instrument will want this book for reference purposes. It also is a fascinating book which will allow one to "compare notes and opinions" on this fascinating subject. In short, there is a wealth of material presented here. It is all most useful and clearly presented.

"Folk Legacy: "Whether you now play, or want to play the violin or fiddle, they are essentially the same instrument. This book is packed with unusual and useful information about how to purchase a good instrument and a good bow. Choices and alternatives are offered: will it be new or used? (And what to look for in both); handmade or factory-made? price range and what you get for it; looking for flaws, judging the finish, what to look for in the bridge, the f-holes, soundpost, strings, tailpiece.

"Bluegrass Unlimited: "What will help you on your fiddle-hunting expeditions is to take along a knowledgeable friend and a copy of the Fiddle and Violin Buyer's Guide. Ryan Thomson, the author of several other fiddle-related books, wants to help people find the best fiddles that they can afford, and to that end, he's packed a wealth of information, advice, and insight into this handy little book."

Victory Music Review: "The Buyer's Guide is valuable for all fiddlers, giving specific tips on locating, selecting and caring for an instrument.

"Dirty Linen: "I have never seen another publication that assembles so much useful information on violin buying and maintenance."Sing Out!: "A very practical little book, it explains the many details of violin construction and repair. The author gives simple tips for buyers and players, providing a reliable manual on the construction, attributes, features, qualities and selection criteria to consider in evaluating instruments. Included are also helpful hints on the care and repair of the fiddle and a limited discussion of price ranges and brands. A short bibliography leads the reader to more detailed information."

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• guide
• quality
• economy
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• DIY

[LordNothingam]

Hey,I was thinking of buying a violin,I never played before,but I have some experience in guitar and bass.I don't have a large budget,so I was thinking of buying one of 200$ of 4/4.I was thinking if you could tell if it's okay for a beginner.

[4stringjoe]

@LordNothingam I'd suggest that before buying it that you visit a violin store and try out a few different violins. My book - The Fiddle and Violin Buyers Guide, will give you many tips about determining the quality of violins.

I explain what features a decent violin should have rather than telling you which particular brand that you should buy. Try out violins of different qualities to get an idea of the differences which I describe in my book.

[JulianNickoloffMusic]

I was thinking of purchasing a Samuel Eastman Model 80 Violin which goes for $350.00 at Long and McQuade. I haven't played the violin before, but I'd like to start playing. I tried one at a friend's house a few days ago and I loved it! I have seven years of guitar playing experience, so I thought that learning by myself would be a good option. It is just a matter of transferring knowledge I suppose. What do you think Ryan?

[4stringjoe]

I recommend using a combination of all resources available to you, including private and group lessons, instructional books, recordings, spending time with other musicians, attending performances, informal jam sessions, etc. There are numerous instructional aids available through the internet, including books, recordings, and videos that I have personally produced and sell on my web site, and also good materials from many other companies as well.

[dieallshegrip]

what size of violin is suitable for me... I'm a 5'10 boy... and I really want to start playing violin... please help...

[4stringjoe]

@dieallshegrip

At 5' 10' I'd say that you need a full size violin. These are sometimes called a "4/4" size at music stores.

[lilgirlheart123]

WOW thx :D

[4stringjoe]

@est101010 Sorry, but I don't comment on particular brands. My book doesn't rate "brands" but rather describes which features and construction details determine a good sounding and playing violin, so that you can make an informed decision on your own.

[LordNothingam]

@4stringjoe ok,thanks for the advice



[Kizales]

@JulianNickoloffMusic I saw that same exact violin and it is the one that I most considering unless I am able to get one from a violin shop. If you know anybody who has it or if you get it, please let me know how it is :)

[kymusabi]

Thanks dude, I play drums and guitar but i've taken an interest in the violin and you're video was pretty helpful! 90% of the other beginner violin related videos are just ridiculous.