Sound is a vital element when it comes to choosing the right stringed instrument.

Givens Violins is committed to finding excellent sounding instruments in every price range. We know that the dependability of an instrument and the way that it produces sound are extremely important to the player. In order to achieve this, we make sure that the instruments we sell are well-constructed of seasoned materials and accurately set up. Our attention to detail and the exacting standards of our staff of professionally trained violin makers and restorers ensures that your purchase or your repair will not disappoint you.

Givens Violins employs professionally trained violin makers who have experience in restoration. Our workshop of 5 restorers represents 112 years of experience in the violin business. They understand and use the 400 year-old tradition of violin-making not only to help our customers maintain the sound of their instruments, but also to assist in the selection and preparation of instruments and bows for sale.

In order to help make the sound of our instruments consistently great, our workshop uses aged bridges, sound posts, pegs, and fingerboards of the highest quality.

The owners of the business, Claire Givens and Andrew Dipper, have combined experience of 65 years in the violin business. They search the world over to find the finest violins, violas, cellos, and bows in every price range.

We are all players, so talk to us about the sound you want. We look forward to helping you find it.

You and your child have made the decision to begin musical studies! Now you must find an instrument that suits both your child’s abilities and your budget. Below are some guidelines to consider in making the decision to rent or buy your child’s first stringed instrument.

 

Good Reasons to Rent

• To “test the waters” and allow a low-stress trial period for the student
• Financial commitment is low (short-term)

Renting should definitely be considered by all beginning players. Rental instruments can be acquired from some retail music stores and from many public and private schools.

One of the main advantages of renting is that the initial financial commitment is less. When a student is just beginning musical studies, it is difficult to assess what his or her level of commitment will be. The student may be sure, but the parents may have doubts. Physical, mental, and emotional development, as well as the student-teacher relationship and family dynamics all contribute to a student’s success with an instrument. Family circumstances or new interests may draw the student away from music and in other directions. If you rent on a month-by-month, quarterly, or semester basis, there will be less stress if the student loses interest in music or decides to pursue a different instrument.

A disadvantage of renting is that many rental or rent-to-own instruments are of lower quality and have limited trade values. In addition, long-term use of a lower quality instrument may inhibit a student’s development.

Good Reasons to Buy

• To acquire a better sounding, more responsive instrument
• To reward commitment
• To accelerate progress (on recommendation of the teacher)
• To increase future options for “trading-up”
• To develop a long-term relationship with a violin shop and workshop

When the student is no longer a beginner and the parents and teacher agree that the student is committed to continued musical studies, it is wise to consider purchasing an instrument. A better quality instrument will often enable progress due to improved sound and ease of response. This tends to encourage more practice. Better sound will also enable an increased depth of understanding on the part of the student and increased enjoyment for the family.

Personal Preference of Player

• Sound
• Response and “feel”
• Playing needs (e.g. 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-in 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

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.

 

1. Sound

Sound is up to the preference of the individual player.

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 workshop instruments
• Trade name instruments
• Amateur-made instruments

4. Origins

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