What is Price Based On?

Here is a checklist of items to consider when buying a violin, viola or cello. Don't hesitate to ask questions of your salesperson. Gain exposure to a variety of instruments in and slightly above your price range. Develop a vocabulary to describe what you are looking for. Take your time and enjoy the search!

Pricing

Pricing is based on the following factors

1. Sound

   Sound is up to the individual player's preferences

2. Condition

   General Health:

   • No open cracks or seams
   • Cracks repaired neatly and securely

   Conformity of basic critical measurements

   • Angle of fingerboard
   • Neck length
   • Exactness of proportions
   • Stop length

   Proper Functioning

   • Smooth turning pegs
   • Proper arching, dressing, position and length of fingerboard
   • Proper string spacing
   • Proper length and position of soundpost
   • Proper height, contour, fitting and position of bridge

3. Quality of Materials, Artistry and Craftsmanship

   • Master instruments
   • Master shop instruments
   • Trade name instruments
   • Amateur-made instruments

4. Origins

   • Who made the instrument?
   • When was it made?
   • Where was it made?

Considerations when Purchasing an Instrument or Bow

• Personal preference of player:

  • Sound
  • Response and "feel"
  • Playing needs, i.e. soloist, orchestra, chamber music

• Condition of instrument or bow

  • Critical to value and playability of instrument or bow

• Investment considerations

  • Ability to trade or resell

• Support of the seller

  • Repair facility, staff expertise, trade policy, reputation

• Auditioning instruments or bows

  • Play a variety of instruments or bows
  • Try to get your final selection "on-trial" so that you have time to play the instrument(s) or bow(s) several times in a variety of settings and consult teachers or colleagues if desired

Factors to Consider before You Shop

• What are you willing to spend?
• How will you finance your purchase?
• Who will be the decision makers? Player only? Player and teacher? Player and conductor? Will they be available during your trial period?
• In which halls could you/do you need to try the instrument?