Help Me Decide
In order for us to help you find the best violin for your child, simply answer these 5 questions.
We Recommend: Yamaha
Yamaha Student Violin
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Are you looking for the most economical model, or something with upgraded features?
In student violins, having a quality, well set-up, and functional instrument is the most important thing to help your child succeed. Beyond that, you have some choice about what the violin looks like, the case style, and the fittings.
Can the instrument have a simple, plain finish or upgraded with visible wood flame?
The main reason instruments start to go up in price is the quality of the wood selection and the finish. An entry-level student violin will have a plain finish (no shading or antiquing), as well as basic, well-seasoned wood. As a violin steps up in price the wood (Spruce, Maple) used in its construction has been seasoned longer, and you start to see more wood flame, particularly on the back of the instrument.
Would you rather buy or rent?
If your child is just starting out, it may make sense for you to start out with an instrument rental from a retailer you trust. Many retailers offer rental credit towards a purchase, so that when your child is ready to step up, you can apply a percentage of your rental payments to a new instrument. Purchasing a quality student instrument outright may also be convenient if you have other children who will eventually be growing into the same instrument. Peace of mind: an outright purchase of a Yamaha violin is covered under a 5-year warranty.
Does a particular brand of strings or bow factor into your decision?
Some teachers ask that their students use a specific string brand such as D'Addario or Thomastik. Strings can easily be changed or upgraded (or replaced!) as necessary. The term "fittings" refers to the tuning pegs and the tailpiece. Ebony and Rosewood are the most common wood materials for fittings, which contribute to the instrument's cost depending on quality. A sturdy case is essential for the instrument's protection, and you may take into consideration case size, weight and material durability to protect your investment.
Would you prefer an instrument that produces more of a bright/clear tone or a deep/soft tone?
When a student is just starting out, it will be hard to distinguish any particular tone. However, some instruments tend to be more bright and brilliant-sounding, and some instruments tend to have a darker, softer sound. The brighter the instrument the more clarity a student can hear under their ear. With darker instruments it's slightly easier to get a warmer sound from the outset.
Student Violins, Violas,
and Cellos
Whether your child is in an orchestra, or considering joining one, you’ll find everything your child needs to thrive in the world of music on this page.
Do Your
Research
Without some basic knowledge about the instrument your child may want to learn, you might feel unprepared for this new experience.
Craftmanship
Feel assured that your investment will take your child to the next level. A well-made instrument should be skillfully crafted and use quality materials.
Sound
Listen for clarity, warmth and the ability to project. Even for beginners, good sound is the foundation for progress.
Size
A well set-up instrument, makes it much easier for your child to progress. Help your beginner get the best start on their musical path. Your local dealer can help with this.
Select Your
Instrument
Check out our instruments that are perfect for beginners.
Model 3
Student Violin
The violin is a stringed instrument played with a bow and matches the range of the human voice. Sound is produced by drawing the horsehair of the bow across its 4 strings.
AV5
Student Violin Outfit
Fully hand-carved, the AV5's Spruce top, Maple neck, back & sides are seasoned & aged 5+ years.
AV7
Student Violin Outfit
Fully hand-carved, the AV7's Spruce top, Maple neck, back & sides are seasoned & aged 5+ years.
AVA5
Student Viola Outfit
Fully hand-carved, the AVA5's Spruce top, Maple neck, back & sides are seasoned & aged 5+ years.
AVA7
Standard B♭ Student Viola Outfit
Fully hand-carved, the AVA7's Spruce top, Maple neck, back & sides are seasoned & aged 5+ years.
AVC5
Student Model Cello
Perfect for the Beginning Cellist.
AVC7
Student Model Cello
Greater expression for improving players.
Yamaha Student Violins
Model 3: Good
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Most economical
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Plain finish, basic wood
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Simple case, bow, and rosin
AV5: Better
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Economical
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Plain finish, upgraded wood
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Upgraded case, bow, and rosin
AV7: Best
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Slightly higher cost
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Shaded finish, upgraded wood (flamed)
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Deluxe case, bow, and rosin
Which Student Violin?
Take a short quiz to help you decide.
Find Your
Dealer
When you're ready, find a local authorized dealer to get your Yamaha instrument.
Dealer Locator
WHY
RENT?
Renting an instrument is an easy way for new band students to explore their musical interests. Renting is an affordable option to make learning more fun! Authorized Yamaha dealers provide service and support for Yamaha instruments that other stores cannot. When you rent a Yamaha instrument from an authorized Yamaha dealer you have complete peace of mind.
Authorized Dealer Locator Beware Unauthorized Sellers
BEFORE YOU
RENT
Most authorized Yamaha dealers offer a musical instrument rental program and may have even partnered with your local school to provide instrument options for you. The typical "Rental Season" starts in August and many schools host "Rental Nights" for new band parents to learn about band and find an instrument for their new band student. Here are some things to know:
- Plan ahead: Rental Nights are typically very busy. If possible, fill out a copy of the rental form beforehand. This will make the process go more quickly and smoothly.
- Payment will vary between dealers. However, cheaper does not always mean better. Know which brand of instrument you are renting before considering price, because a cheaper model's repair costs may end up being more than the initial cost.
- Beware of purchasing from unauthorized online sellers. If you're looking for more affordable or used instruments, authorized Yamaha dealers offer quality-checked instruments and can offer expert advice on whether to purchase or to rent.
- Different dealers offer different rental agreements. Make sure rental terms are clear between you and your dealer.
For more information on what these agreements might look like, see our
FAQs
Ever instrument should come with an Owner's Manual that includes detailed instructions on how to take care of your instrument. Can't find it? All owner's manuals are digitally available under the downloads tab of that model. Need help finding it? Send us an email at BandAndOrchestra@yamaha.com!
Maybe. Most dealers offer both new and used instruments for rent. Speak with your dealer to be sure you know what you are getting. Though used instruments can play just as good as a new one if it has been serviced properly!
These details should be laid out in the rental contract. Make sure you understand the agreement before signing and speak with your dealer if you have any questions.
The rental period may vary from dealer to dealer. Some are month to month, others have an introductory period of several months. Be sure you understand the terms before signing the contract!
In many cases, yes! Speak with your dealer for more details about a rent-to-own plan.
Many dealers do offer some sort of maintenance plan, some even provide a loaner in the case that repairs will take a few days. Consult your dealer and rental agreement to know for sure.
This will depend on the rental agreement, but in most cases yes. If your student decides they want to play a different instrument, talk with your dealer to understand what options are available!
The first line of defense when it comes to renting is the dealer that you are working with. They are always happy to help and answer any questions!
Feel free to send any questions you might have about Yamaha instruments directly to us at BandAndOrchestra@yamaha.com! We can help you learn all about an instrument or help you find the nearest authorized Yamaha dealer.
