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Editor's picks

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  Mendini MV300 Satin Solid Wood Violin + Extra set of Strings, Shoulder Rest, Bow, Rosin & Case in 4/4 (Full Size)

  Musical Instruments (Mendini)
  

  Rating (81 reviews):

  (3.2/5)

  

  Great quality/price ratio!

  Great violin? No. As nice as the ones the music stores rent for $25 a month, yes. Comes with tons of accessories that would cost you $30-40. As a violin teacher, I like to have these on hand for cheap entry level instruments, or rent for $10/month. That way a student doesn't have to get into a year contract at a local music store if they aren't sure if they want to stick with it or not. A great way to get started on the violin for VERY little money. After owning this violin for a year or so, the student can decide to invest in a nicer one, and pass this along to a sibling/friend/Craigslist. Only disclaimer is: make sure you have someone who can setup a violin for you (the case with all violins, regardless of quality). They are NOT instruments that can be played right out of the box, and if you have a store do this for you, it's probably a $30-45 fee. Find a violin playing friend that will do it for free for you :) 5/5 Captain Cadabra - See all my reviews This review is from: Mendini MV300 Satin Solid Wood Violin + Extra set of Strings, Shoulder Rest, Bow, Rosin & Case in 4/4 (Full Size) Great violin? No. As nice as the ones the music stores rent for $25 a month, yes. Comes with tons of accessories that would cost you $30-40. As a violin teacher, I like to have these on hand for cheap entry level instruments, or rent for $10/month. That way a student doesn't have to get into a year contract at a local music store if they aren't sure if they want to stick with it or not. A great way to get started on the violin for VERY little money. After owning this violin for a year or so, the student can decide to invest in a nicer one, and pass this along to a sibling/friend/Craigslist. Only disclaimer is: make sure you have someone who can setup a violin for you (the case with all violins, regardless of quality). They are NOT instruments that can be played right out of the box, and if you have a store do this for you, it's probably a $30-45 fee. Find a violin playing friend that will do it for free for you :) Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , June 21, 2011

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  Much better than I expected

  I wrote this review for the person who knows nothing about violins at all:This violin is of much higher quality than I ever imagined. It is not, of course, even a good violin by professional standards, but it is a very solid beginner's instrument. I bought it for myself, though I am not a violinist, but I have been playing guitar, bass, and keys for more than six years, and I have played violins before. My ex-girlfriend lent me her first violin when we were dating, and it was really, really horrible. This one is pretty close to her current violin, which was a pretty decent student model. I did a lot of research before buying this one, and I'm really glad I did. It is rated highly by violin teachers and other violinists, but very lowly by people who have no idea what they are talking about. I have read that a lot of violins under $100 don't even have a sound post, which is a crucial part of the violin and absolutely cannot be discarded. You're almost better off with a... 5/5 Zachary Buser - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Mendini MV300 Satin Solid Wood Violin + Extra set of Strings, Shoulder Rest, Bow, Rosin & Case in 4/4 (Full Size) I wrote this review for the person who knows nothing about violins at all:This violin is of much higher quality than I ever imagined. It is not, of course, even a good violin by professional standards, but it is a very solid beginner's instrument. I bought it for myself, though I am not a violinist, but I have been playing guitar, bass, and keys for more than six years, and I have played violins before. My ex-girlfriend lent me her first violin when we were dating, and it was really, really horrible. This one is pretty close to her current violin, which was a pretty decent student model. I did a lot of research before buying this one, and I'm really glad I did. It is rated highly by violin teachers and other violinists, but very lowly by people who have no idea what they are talking about. I have read that a lot of violins under $100 don't even have a sound post, which is a crucial part of the violin and absolutely cannot be discarded. You're almost better off with a... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , October 27, 2011

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  Excellent value for starter violin

  Very good value for a starter violin. I set the bridge and tuned right up. Strings were in good shape. Strings will stretch initially so you retune periodically and due to changes in humidity. Violin sounds pretty good. Very adequate. Nice case, extra strings, bow is good. Rough up the rosin surface with sandpaper before applying to bow. A great deal. 4/5 Drumbler (NJ) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Mendini MV-Black Solid Wood Metallic Black Violin + Hard Case, Shoulder Rest, Bow, Rosin & Strings in 4/4 (Full Size) Very good value for a starter violin. I set the bridge and tuned right up. Strings were in good shape. Strings will stretch initially so you retune periodically and due to changes in humidity. Violin sounds pretty good. Very adequate. Nice case, extra strings, bow is good. Rough up the rosin surface with sandpaper before applying to bow. A great deal. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , July 24, 2011

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  List Price: $199.99
  

  Includes: Well-padded lightweight form fitting hard case with straps

  Ebony frogged bow with mother of pearl pearl inlay & unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair

  1 Year Warranty Against Manufacturer's Defect

  Size 4/4 (Full Size) Solid hand-carved spruce top violin, maple back and sides finished with beautiful satin varnish finish and inlaid purfling

  Adjustable shoulder Rest, Rosin, Bridge and an Extra set of Strings

  Rosewood fingerboard, chin rest & pegs, Alloy tailpiece with 4 fine built-in tuners

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  ViolinSmart 4/4 Full Size Student Violin w/Bow, Case, and Rosin - Solid Black

  Musical Instruments (ViolinSmart)
  

  Rating (49 reviews):

  (2.9/5)

  

  Go Violin!

  I ordered this violin on a Sunday evening and recieved it the following Saturday at 9am with the cheapest shipping. This is, well, a cheap violin. You're looking at it because you're interested in getting a cheap violin. Why? I thought of the following: Decor, prop, for a child, to find out if you hate or have an unknown untapped talent for the violin, you think it will be fun, but don't want to spend a lot of cash on a whim. I'm kind of the last two, and I don't have piles of cash lying around. So I figured I can afford that, if I hate it then hey at least it would look pretty in a room of my house somewhere. So yeah, it arrived timely. The case... is cheap. There's like some glue on the felt in spots, wooden debris, the outer material feels a bit flimsy, but it's a case, and it will suffice. It actually looks soft-sided but it's firm. I kinda like it. My interior was red, not the tan. Setting up the bridge is really... 4/5 amarygma (MN, USA) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: ViolinSmart 4/4 Full Size Student Violin w/Bow, Case, and Rosin - Solid Black I ordered this violin on a Sunday evening and recieved it the following Saturday at 9am with the cheapest shipping. This is, well, a cheap violin. You're looking at it because you're interested in getting a cheap violin. Why? I thought of the following: Decor, prop, for a child, to find out if you hate or have an unknown untapped talent for the violin, you think it will be fun, but don't want to spend a lot of cash on a whim. I'm kind of the last two, and I don't have piles of cash lying around. So I figured I can afford that, if I hate it then hey at least it would look pretty in a room of my house somewhere. So yeah, it arrived timely. The case... is cheap. There's like some glue on the felt in spots, wooden debris, the outer material feels a bit flimsy, but it's a case, and it will suffice. It actually looks soft-sided but it's firm. I kinda like it. My interior was red, not the tan. Setting up the bridge is really... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , July 18, 2006

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  Better than I expected!

  I purchased this violin on a whim when I was reminiscing about playing as a child. It is a terrific price (cheaper than most toys...or at least the same price as a meal out with the family...) and comes with everything I needed to get started. I was pleasantly surprised that it came well packed and within the suggested time. I was also able to track the item through UPS. I panicked at first because I could not get any sound to come out of it and thought I had been sold a piece of junk. I went to the internet to see if I could figure out what was wrong and found that I needed to attach the bridge that was in the accessory compartment of the case. It was much easier than I thought. I found a great website that explained it all to me [...]and also has free beginning lessons and other important information that I have already found helpful. The other crucial key to getting sound from the violin is to have the bow rosined properly. (You also need to tighted the bow with the little... 5/5 L. Nevin "Eagle Mountain Books" - See all my reviews, July 20, 2006

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  Black Pearl

  I've been interested in playing the violin since about the age of eight, I am now nearly sixteen and decided it's about time to play. I did not start in earlier years because violins are regularly rather costly. Out of curiousity, I began browsing Amazon's selection of violins and stumbled upon this specific violin set. It is a great price, a beautiful violin and a wonderful set for a beginner. I ordered this violin on the 5th of July, I was told it would arrive between the 13th and the 18th. It came today, which is the 14th, quite a timely manner and in perfect condition. The violin was just like the picture, I am not at all disappointed. Though I have to say, I had an issue with one of the strings which broke on me while I assembled the bridge, which comes unassembled and without instructions. Being that I've never seen a fully assembled violin with my own eyes, it was a bit of a challenge to figure out how to assemble it. I at first thought the strings go through the holes that are... 5/5 Alaka Lalia R. "Lia" (San Francisco, CA) - See all my reviews This review is from: ViolinSmart 4/4 Full Size Student Violin w/Bow, Case, and Rosin - Solid Black I've been interested in playing the violin since about the age of eight, I am now nearly sixteen and decided it's about time to play. I did not start in earlier years because violins are regularly rather costly. Out of curiousity, I began browsing Amazon's selection of violins and stumbled upon this specific violin set. It is a great price, a beautiful violin and a wonderful set for a beginner. I ordered this violin on the 5th of July, I was told it would arrive between the 13th and the 18th. It came today, which is the 14th, quite a timely manner and in perfect condition. The violin was just like the picture, I am not at all disappointed. Though I have to say, I had an issue with one of the strings which broke on me while I assembled the bridge, which comes unassembled and without instructions. Being that I've never seen a fully assembled violin with my own eyes, it was a bit of a challenge to figure out how to assemble it. I at first thought the strings go through the holes that are... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , July 14, 2006

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  List Price: $199.00
  

  4/4 or full-size violin, for violinists age 9 and above with an arm length of 23.5 inches and up

  Comes with hard shell case, bow, and rosin

  Select spruce top, pearwood fingerboard, maple back and sides

  Inexpensive starter instrument for children and adults alike

  Available in an array of colors

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  Mendini MV400 Ebony Fitted Solid Wood Violin + Extra set of Strings, Shoulder Rest, 2 Bows, Rosin & Case in 4/4 (Full Size)

  Musical Instruments (Mendini)
  

  Rating (6 reviews):

  (4.7/5)

  

  Nice Violin

  The violin is in perfect condition. I received all of the accessories as advertised. You even receive their Web page for maintenance and beginner's violin instructions! Wow! I didn't expect that! The case is very nice and sturdy. Remember to scratch the top of the rosin because it's smooth. You have to get it started. I did that and the rosin worked wonderfully! I made my first sounds on a violin! I am a musician, but I've never played the violin...ever! I am sooooo excited about my purchase. I couldn't be happier! I would write more but I want to get back to my Brand New Violin! You will be very happy if you purchase this violin. I know that I am. Thank you seller for such a wonderful transaction! Oh...did I mention the fact that the violin was shipped and received with lightening speed! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!! 5/5 Denise Borum "Denise Borum, JD" (Long Island, NY) - See all my reviews, November 23, 2011

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  Great $75 dollar violin

  So, I was kind of worried buying this, because with the other models of the same brand people were complaining about the product. Then I learned about violins. Every violin has a bridge that is held in place by string pressure, even the most expensive ones. It literally takes 2 seconds to do, and then you tune it. That was the second big complaint- "ugh, it's not even tuned when it arrives the day after I ordered it, plus it's in pieces, send me a good violin, thx, pls! OMG". Guess what, if you don't think you'll need to tune it, you don't deserve to buy it. Its a good starting violin. It's also a good deal. 5/5 J - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Mendini MV400 Ebony Fitted Solid Wood Violin + Extra set of Strings, Shoulder Rest, 2 Bows, Rosin & Case in 4/4 (Full Size) So, I was kind of worried buying this, because with the other models of the same brand people were complaining about the product. Then I learned about violins. Every violin has a bridge that is held in place by string pressure, even the most expensive ones. It literally takes 2 seconds to do, and then you tune it. That was the second big complaint- "ugh, it's not even tuned when it arrives the day after I ordered it, plus it's in pieces, send me a good violin, thx, pls! OMG". Guess what, if you don't think you'll need to tune it, you don't deserve to buy it. Its a good starting violin. It's also a good deal. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , November 21, 2011

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  Great Instrument For Starting Out

  My teacher was more than pleasantly surprised when I brought this MV400 to him for setup.. Which by the way, was nothing more than tuning the strings. The action, tuning pegs, bridge and sound post were all matched and aligned properly. My instructor was pleased to note the violin had inlaid purfling as well as a solid set of strings. In fact, the strings (according to his trained ear, not mine) are higher quality and sound than a "Red Label Super Sensitive" set I purchased. The bows are of various weight and quality, with one being a better option than the other in this starter kit. I do recommend purchasing a different rosin for a darker tone. The instrument is not perfect, nor is it professional grade but for the beginning student (or in my case, the returning student) but a better value will likely not be found. I will be able to make it sing for a few years to come. My instructor labeled this violin as a "grade 7 or 8 level instrument." Not absolutely... 4/5 M Cannon - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Mendini MV400 Ebony Fitted Solid Wood Violin + Extra set of Strings, Shoulder Rest, 2 Bows, Rosin & Case in 4/4 (Full Size) My teacher was more than pleasantly surprised when I brought this MV400 to him for setup.. Which by the way, was nothing more than tuning the strings. The action, tuning pegs, bridge and sound post were all matched and aligned properly. My instructor was pleased to note the violin had inlaid purfling as well as a solid set of strings. In fact, the strings (according to his trained ear, not mine) are higher quality and sound than a "Red Label Super Sensitive" set I purchased. The bows are of various weight and quality, with one being a better option than the other in this starter kit. I do recommend purchasing a different rosin for a darker tone. The instrument is not perfect, nor is it professional grade but for the beginning student (or in my case, the returning student) but a better value will likely not be found. I will be able to make it sing for a few years to come. My instructor labeled this violin as a "grade 7 or 8 level instrument." Not absolutely... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , December 29, 2011

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  List Price: $294.99
  Price: $89.99
  You Save: $205.00 (69%)

  Includes: Padded lightweight hard case, adjustable shoulder rest, rosin, bridge and an extra set of strings

  2 x Ebony frogged bow with mother of pearl pearl inlay & unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair

  1 Year Warranty Against Manufacture's Defects

  4/4 (Full Size) Solid hand-carved spruce top, maple back and sides finished with beautiful varnish finish and inlaid purfling

  Ebony fingerboard, chin rest & pegs, Alloy tailpiece with 4 fine built-in tuners

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  The Instrument Store TIS-200 Student Violin Full Size (4/4) with Ebony Fittings, Case and Bow - SAVE an EXTRA $80 During CYBER WEEK

  Musical Instruments (Legacy)
  

  Rating (8 reviews):

  (4.2/5)

  

  Great beginner Violin

  I bought this Violin for my granddaughter so she could begin taking Violin Lessons. Her teacher suggested looking online to find an inexpensive beginner instrument. She is using the violin in her lessons and her teacher says it's great. It stays in tune and it get's a pretty nice sound (when the teacher plays it, LOL). I highly recommend this violin to someone looking for a beginner Instrument. 5/5 Violet's Grandma - See all my reviews This review is from: The Instrument Store TIS-200 Student Violin Full Size (4/4) with Ebony Fittings, Case and Bow - SAVE an EXTRA $80 During CYBER WEEK I bought this Violin for my granddaughter so she could begin taking Violin Lessons. Her teacher suggested looking online to find an inexpensive beginner instrument. She is using the violin in her lessons and her teacher says it's great. It stays in tune and it get's a pretty nice sound (when the teacher plays it, LOL). I highly recommend this violin to someone looking for a beginner Instrument. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , November 15, 2011

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  Nice stuff!

  I ordered it during thanksgiving, and it is shipped the next day, and it is delivered in 3 days, that's fast! The violin sounds great, everything is brand new, and it is such a good deal! Strongly recommended! 5/5 crazy - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: The Instrument Store TIS-200 Student Violin Full Size (4/4) with Ebony Fittings, Case and Bow - SAVE an EXTRA $80 During CYBER WEEK I ordered it during thanksgiving, and it is shipped the next day, and it is delivered in 3 days, that's fast! The violin sounds great, everything is brand new, and it is such a good deal! Strongly recommended! Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , November 29, 2011

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  new to violin, but not new to music

  I ordered this violin as a sort of Christmas present to myself, so I'd have something new to play, and I knew I was paying fairly low on an instrument most people expect to pay in the $500-$1000 range to start...The violin came with several scratches on the body, and on the bow around the frog as well. The horsehair on the bow is rough and several pieces were already broken, tangled, or nearly pulled out. Tightening the hair made this less apparent, but it's still visible. The pegs do not move easily, and the strings don't stay tuned...I don't necessarily think this is a fault of the violin, as I'd read that is a pretty common problem and bought peg drops (that I don't have yet) to combat the problem. Other than that, once the strings are nearly tuned, it sounds nice. Not great, and it's certainly not something I'd even want to play in an orchestra, but I think it'll be fine to learn on. All in all, I think I got what I paid for, but not a penny more. Would not be as... 3/5 keilson - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: The Instrument Store TIS-200 Student Violin Full Size (4/4) with Ebony Fittings, Case and Bow - SAVE an EXTRA $80 During CYBER WEEK I ordered this violin as a sort of Christmas present to myself, so I'd have something new to play, and I knew I was paying fairly low on an instrument most people expect to pay in the $500-$1000 range to start...The violin came with several scratches on the body, and on the bow around the frog as well. The horsehair on the bow is rough and several pieces were already broken, tangled, or nearly pulled out. Tightening the hair made this less apparent, but it's still visible. The pegs do not move easily, and the strings don't stay tuned...I don't necessarily think this is a fault of the violin, as I'd read that is a pretty common problem and bought peg drops (that I don't have yet) to combat the problem. Other than that, once the strings are nearly tuned, it sounds nice. Not great, and it's certainly not something I'd even want to play in an orchestra, but I think it'll be fine to learn on. All in all, I think I got what I paid for, but not a penny more. Would not be as... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , December 9, 2011

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  List Price: $299.99
  

  Genuine ebony pegs, fingerboard and chinrest with a classic brown finish.

  Solid spruce top with carved maple back and sides.

  Professional setup in our NY workshop

  Quality violin outfit for the beginning student. Rich tone and quality features at any entry level price.

  Violin comes with a wood horsehair bow, Wittner style metal tailpiece, rosin and a violin shaped canvas covered lightweight case.

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  New 4/4 Full Size Student Violin

  Musical Instruments (Bridgecraft)
  

  Rating (16 reviews):

  (3.4/5)

  

  Better than average

  I am a professional musician, music teacher and violin dealer. I had a problem getting beginner violins from my manufacturer in China, so I figured i would look at this Violin. First let me say that 98% of beginner violin selling in the USA for under $200.00 are Made in China. This one is no worse or better than factory violins retailing for over $150.00. Of course before I sell it to a student I change the strings and re fit the bridge. A decent set of strings costs me about $13.00 and a bridge about three dollars. You can learn how to fit a bridge on utube. So I have a total of 65$ in the instrument. I put it next to another mass produced best selling Violin from China retailing at $150.00 and it sounded better, but that is with new strings. This violin should get the beginner student through the first year of playing, then an upgraded violin would be in order, but so many people quit or just want some basic enjoyment that there is no need to spend $200. Slipping pegs can be... 4/5 Celloteacher - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: New 4/4 Full Size Student Violin I am a professional musician, music teacher and violin dealer. I had a problem getting beginner violins from my manufacturer in China, so I figured i would look at this Violin. First let me say that 98% of beginner violin selling in the USA for under $200.00 are Made in China. This one is no worse or better than factory violins retailing for over $150.00. Of course before I sell it to a student I change the strings and re fit the bridge. A decent set of strings costs me about $13.00 and a bridge about three dollars. You can learn how to fit a bridge on utube. So I have a total of 65$ in the instrument. I put it next to another mass produced best selling Violin from China retailing at $150.00 and it sounded better, but that is with new strings. This violin should get the beginner student through the first year of playing, then an upgraded violin would be in order, but so many people quit or just want some basic enjoyment that there is no need to spend $200. Slipping pegs can be... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , September 7, 2011

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  okay

  This is my first violin and since I bought it cheap, I wasn't expecting much. My violin teacher said that it sounded just fine for being what the price was. Me and my violin teacher both think that it would be just fine for a starter violin. It didn't come with a bridge though and my E-string broke on the first try of it being tuned. Overall I was pleased with the violin but I wouldn't give it five stars. I will give it a three because it didn't come with the bridge which is pretty much the most important part of the violin if you want to get any sound out of it. 3/5 Harris - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: New 4/4 Full Size Student Violin This is my first violin and since I bought it cheap, I wasn't expecting much. My violin teacher said that it sounded just fine for being what the price was. Me and my violin teacher both think that it would be just fine for a starter violin. It didn't come with a bridge though and my E-string broke on the first try of it being tuned. Overall I was pleased with the violin but I wouldn't give it five stars. I will give it a three because it didn't come with the bridge which is pretty much the most important part of the violin if you want to get any sound out of it. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , November 3, 2010

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  VSO - 'Violin Shaped Object'

  At the school where I teach, we call these 'Violin-shaped-objects' because they are not violins. Do yourself and your teacher a favour by spending an extra $100 and get a playable instrument. A crappy instrument will put you off. It's not worth it. You may luck out and get one of these that are 'OK-ish' but the quality is not consistent and most are dreadful. You can get a decent instrument for another $75 to $100. Worth spending the small extra than throwing away $60 on this, unless you want to spend all of your precious lesson time trying to tune up! Only my humble opinion. 1/5 Violin Tutor - See all my reviews This review is from: New 4/4 Full Size Student Violin At the school where I teach, we call these 'Violin-shaped-objects' because they are not violins. Do yourself and your teacher a favour by spending an extra $100 and get a playable instrument. A crappy instrument will put you off. It's not worth it. You may luck out and get one of these that are 'OK-ish' but the quality is not consistent and most are dreadful. You can get a decent instrument for another $75 to $100. Worth spending the small extra than throwing away $60 on this, unless you want to spend all of your precious lesson time trying to tune up! Only my humble opinion. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , March 15, 2011

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  Also includes bow, rosin and case (interior case color may vary)

  Alloy tailpiece with 4 fine tuners

  Full size 4/4 violin

  Maple back and sides with solid spruce top

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  Cecilio CVN-200 4/4 Size (Full Size) Rosewood Fitted Solid Wood Violin + Hard Case, 2 Bows, Rosin & Extra Set of Strings & Bridge ~ Teacher Approved!

  Musical Instruments (Cecilio Musical Instruments)
  

  Rating (52 reviews):

  (3.6/5)

  

  After four weeks of playing, EXCELLENT beginning violin

  This will be a moderately comprehensive review of Cecilio CVN-200 violin First of all my knowledge of violins is limited but I'm learning everyday. I do have a music background playing trumpet in school and piano at home with some compositions on the side. I've always wanted to learn violin and finally decided to try. 100 bucks for a violin, does it even work? I received this instrument four weeks ago and am extremely happy with it. The outfit for this is great for the price. You get everything you need to start playing and more, ie. TWO bows, TWO sets of strings, an extra bridge, a case, a shoulder rest, a simple tuner, and a cake of rosin. All of these are essential for playing the violin and you get them all. Also, the bow and strings are very delicate parts so having two in case one breaks is a huge plus for a newbie. The violin itself also comes with four micro tuners (at the bottom end of the strings) rather than just one on... 5/5 Cbui "CBui" (Phoenix, AZ) - See all my reviews This review is from: Cecilio CVN-200 4/4 Size (Full Size) Rosewood Fitted Solid Wood Violin + Hard Case, 2 Bows, Rosin & Extra Set of Strings & Bridge ~ Teacher Approved! This will be a moderately comprehensive review of Cecilio CVN-200 violin First of all my knowledge of violins is limited but I'm learning everyday. I do have a music background playing trumpet in school and piano at home with some compositions on the side. I've always wanted to learn violin and finally decided to try. 100 bucks for a violin, does it even work? I received this instrument four weeks ago and am extremely happy with it. The outfit for this is great for the price. You get everything you need to start playing and more, ie. TWO bows, TWO sets of strings, an extra bridge, a case, a shoulder rest, a simple tuner, and a cake of rosin. All of these are essential for playing the violin and you get them all. Also, the bow and strings are very delicate parts so having two in case one breaks is a huge plus for a newbie. The violin itself also comes with four micro tuners (at the bottom end of the strings) rather than just one on... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , January 27, 2008

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  For the price, it's great!

  I bought this violin and a CVN-100 1/10 size for my four year old son. He loves the CVN-100, and I love the CVN-200. Please remember that most instruments need a "breaking in" period. Get some peg drops and that will help with the tuning pegs. The thing that I like about this violin is it's tone. A nice beautiful sound. I'm sure that upgrading the strings would also boost it's tone, but for right now, I'm happy. The thing that is nice about this violin, aside from the great price, and tone, is the fact that I don't have to worry about my four year old son breaking a $500+ violin. Because I've been able to be so relaxed, my son has taken full responsibility for his violin. He treats it carefully, wipes it down, and really takes pride in what he has learned in his lessons. It's been a wonderful, low stress way of introducing music, and instilling self-confidence in my little boy. Thanks Cecilio. Know that if you get this violin, you need to learn how to install... 5/5 Arthur Moore (UT, USA) - See all my reviews, December 16, 2006

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  Cecilio CVN-200 Violin is great for the money

  I recently purchased this violin and love it! Both my local music store, and my new teacher looked it over and thought I got a great deal. Being a beginner, I really have no idea if it truly sounds good or not. But, my teacher (who has been playing violin half his life) said it really does have nice sound! So, I would recommend it as a good beginner's violin. 5/5 Quilty Qelly "Kelly" (Indiana) - See all my reviews This review is from: Cecilio CVN-200 4/4 Size (Full Size) Rosewood Fitted Solid Wood Violin + Hard Case, 2 Bows, Rosin & Extra Set of Strings & Bridge ~ Teacher Approved! I recently purchased this violin and love it! Both my local music store, and my new teacher looked it over and thought I got a great deal. Being a beginner, I really have no idea if it truly sounds good or not. But, my teacher (who has been playing violin half his life) said it really does have nice sound! So, I would recommend it as a good beginner's violin. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , March 4, 2007

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  List Price: $239.99
  

  Natural Color Rosewood Pegs, Chin Rest, Tailpiece and Fingerboard

  Rosewood Tailpiece With 4 Fine Nickel Plated Tuners

  Includes Extra Set of Strings, Rosin, Bridge and more

  One Year Warranty

  Hand-Carved Solid Maple Back & Sides

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  Essential Elements 2000 for Strings Plus DVD: Violin Book 1

  Book (Hal Leonard Corporation)
  

  Rating (29 reviews):

  (4.6/5)

  

  Excellent for Adult Beginner!

  Once I got my hands on this book, I discarded all the other "beginner" books I'd purchased. No more having to play juvenile ditties like Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. I'm an adult beginner violinist and Essential Elements 2000 for Strings with its accompanying CD & DVD has enabled me to teach myself how to play my violin while thoroughly enjoying the effort and without experiencing the boredom and humiliation of having to learn tunes better geared toward much younger students. I've only been playing since July and I'm already about to graduate to the second book in the series. The curriculum is interesting, playing along with the orchestra on the CD is exciting, and realizing how fast I'm progressing is a dream come true for this 54 year old beginner. I highly recommend this book as well as Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory Complete to anyone seriously interested in learning violin. 5/5 Suzanne Langlois "JOBeth" (Georgia) - See all my reviews, September 18, 2006

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  Well thought out series.

  "For a real violin study, go with Suzuki." While that might work for a child that is ages 3-4 in a one-on-one or small group setting (which is what the Suzuki Method was intended for), it does not work well in large group learning situation for kids who are twice that age, beginning instruments in fourth and fifth grade. And to be honest, almost everything in the Suzuki method *IS* an arrangement of an original work (like the Bach Bouree from the cello suites set for violin), chosen because even in their simplified form they help teach the fundamental concepts. This is my third year using EE2000 in my school program. I usually have between 30-40 students at each grade level in the orchestra. The books and their accompanying CD/DVD work really well and are of the appropriate complexity for the students ages nine through eleven. As a private instructor myself, I recommend to all my students to seek outside instruction, but EE2000 provides a good balance of technical... 5/5 Gene Wie (Irvine, CA USA) - See all my reviews, September 27, 2007

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  The songs are not the original composition..why..??

  Becuase how else would you learn to read music and interpret that music properly with your violin if you already knew how the song was going to progress? This makes it "cheat proof" for young and old alike. I like that. It forces the student to concentrate on the notes and actually read them instead of memorizing. It's the best and most organized book of its' kind. The cd and dvd are included as is some very useful computer software. You do not have to go out and buy everything seperately. This helps on the students, or parents, pocketbook. Lessons are expensive enough without having to go out and spend a fortune on material for the lesson. Save some money and a whole lot of sight reading headaches down the road and get this book. 4/5 C. Williams "Violin Playa" (Pa USA) - See all my reviews, February 24, 2007

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  List Price: $8.99
  

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  Glaesel Violin Ultra Practice Mute

  Musical Instruments (Glaesel)
  

  Rating (62 reviews):

  (4.4/5)

  

  Good and comfortable mute

  I am a beginner, and this mute seems to do a fine job in decreasing the volume of my mistakes :) It is very easy to use. The material is firm but very soft so I do not have to worry about damaging the bridge ( I was a bit apprehensive about using a nickel or gold plated mute). The mute fits very well on a 4/4 violin and does will not fall off even if you shake the instrument upside down (not sure why anyone would but isn't it nice to know?). Since it seems over-sized I am sure it would fit on any smaller violin as well. I only wish it would mute to an even lower volume. 5/5 Boruta Di Lira (NJ, US) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Glaesel Violin Ultra Practice Mute I am a beginner, and this mute seems to do a fine job in decreasing the volume of my mistakes :) It is very easy to use. The material is firm but very soft so I do not have to worry about damaging the bridge ( I was a bit apprehensive about using a nickel or gold plated mute). The mute fits very well on a 4/4 violin and does will not fall off even if you shake the instrument upside down (not sure why anyone would but isn't it nice to know?). Since it seems over-sized I am sure it would fit on any smaller violin as well. I only wish it would mute to an even lower volume. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , March 19, 2007

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  Nice!

  This mute works great! It cuts the loudness down by well over half. My husband said he could barely hear me in the next room. Perfect for practicing, late night playing, or people that live with room mates or in apartments. Easy to put on and take off. The rubber won't hurt your violin, bridge or strings. I love it! 5/5 Charlene Thompson "Forever Learning New Things" (Virginia Beach, VA United States) - See all my reviews, January 4, 2008

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  Great tonal qualities!

  This mute is great! It mutes a lot too! You can actually control how much the mute actually mutes your violin by raising it a little bit above the bridge. I usually put it a little over half way on when I am in a concert and it is Con Sordini because I prefer the tonal qualities of this rather than my "two holed mute". A lot better sound than those metal ones, put less stress on your bridge and are a lot cheaper too! 5/5 R. Hellinger (Upstate NY) - See all my reviews, July 17, 2007

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  List Price: $5.50
  Price: $3.00
  You Save: $2.50 (45%)

  Features 5 prong

  Practice anywhere

  For Violin

  Heavy rubber

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  Super Sensitive Light Violin Rosin

  Musical Instruments (U.S. Band & Orchestra Supplies Inc.)
  

  Rating (15 reviews):

  (3.9/5)

  

  For Beginners Only

  Super Sensitive Violin Rosin Light is as cheap as they come, to put it lightly. When one rents a violin or a viola from a music store, this is typically the rosin they'll give you with your case. Why? It's affordable. As a more experienced violinist, I'm quick to disparage the use of this rosin. It is low quality, and the bare minimum of what rosin should accomplish. Rosin is an important aspect of playing the violin, as different quality rosins will alter the sound and ease of play. That being said, however, if you are looking to buy rosin for your beginning violinist, there's no harm in beginning with this rosin. I spent my first two years as a violinist with it. When one can only play twinkle twinkle in a slightly off register, it's more important to worry about firmly grasping the basics of violin technique than the quality of ones rosin. Additionally, if we're talking about children, whose to say whether they will stick with the violin for... 3/5 brandon (green bay, wi, usa) - See all my reviews This review is from: Super Sensitive Light Violin Rosin (Electronics) Super Sensitive Violin Rosin Light is as cheap as they come, to put it lightly. When one rents a violin or a viola from a music store, this is typically the rosin they'll give you with your case. Why? It's affordable. As a more experienced violinist, I'm quick to disparage the use of this rosin. It is low quality, and the bare minimum of what rosin should accomplish. Rosin is an important aspect of playing the violin, as different quality rosins will alter the sound and ease of play. That being said, however, if you are looking to buy rosin for your beginning violinist, there's no harm in beginning with this rosin. I spent my first two years as a violinist with it. When one can only play twinkle twinkle in a slightly off register, it's more important to worry about firmly grasping the basics of violin technique than the quality of ones rosin. Additionally, if we're talking about children, whose to say whether they will stick with the violin for... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , June 5, 2005

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  way better than what was included with my violin

  I am a complete newby when it comes to the violin. I purchased a violin online on a whim, that because it was so inexpensive if I give up well, at least I have something pretty to look at. With that in mind, my cheap violin came with even cheaper worthless rosin. It was hard as a rock, and I had to score the crap out of it just to get dust to go on my bow, and it would play for just a few strokes, then I had to vigorously reapply. I found this rosin at a music store and bought it. One easy application and I was FINALY making real violin noises. So for a newby that doesn't know all the details yet, this saved me. If it weren't for this rosin I might have just completely given up. I definately recommend to anybody who is a beginer. 5/5 A. Nelson (utah) - See all my reviews, March 30, 2007

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  Works very well

  I am a beginner violinist and I recently bought my first violin. The rosin that was included with my violin purchase is of very poor quality. Thankfully, I had decided to order this rosin from amazon also as a precaution. It works much better than what was shipped with my violin and not much has to be applied in order for the bow to grasp the strings. It's also very inexpensive. You really can't beat the price. I'm sure it's probably worthwhile to purchase an even higher grade rosin if you're an advanced violinist, but for anyone at the beginner or intermediate stage, this will work very well. 5/5 Jesse - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Super Sensitive Light Violin Rosin (Electronics) I am a beginner violinist and I recently bought my first violin. The rosin that was included with my violin purchase is of very poor quality. Thankfully, I had decided to order this rosin from amazon also as a precaution. It works much better than what was shipped with my violin and not much has to be applied in order for the bow to grasp the strings. It's also very inexpensive. You really can't beat the price. I'm sure it's probably worthwhile to purchase an even higher grade rosin if you're an advanced violinist, but for anyone at the beginner or intermediate stage, this will work very well. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , January 21, 2011

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  List Price: $4.40
  Price: $2.15
  You Save: $2.25 (51%)

  Light rosin

  Easy to use

  Great for beginners and intermediate students.

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  Mendini by Cecilio MV500 Ebony Fitted Flamed 1-Piece Maple Back Violin + 1 Yr Warranty, Chromatic tuner w/ Metronome, 2 Bows, Extra Set of Strings, Shoulder Rest, Extra Bridge & Case in 4/4 (Full Size)

  Musical Instruments (Mendini)
  

  Rating (18 reviews):

  (3.7/5)

  

  Great instrument

  I am a music major at Indiana State University who plays upright bass in orchestra, and was looking to expand my music knowledge to violin. To my surprise my parents picked this up for me. I attempted to tune it and the high e string broke. Not surprising. As a rule, ALWAYS put new string on an instrument right away. The strings it came with were old and low quality. Also be sure to clean the instrument. I was disturbed by the amount of filth that came off the finger board. When i was done with setting it up and such, the instrument i was left with was astounding. The sound and depth is very nice, and the finish is stunning. I'm very happy with it. The case is nice, but it did need to be cleaned. the bows are passable, the rosin..... buy new rosin. 4/5 bdarr - See all my reviews This review is from: Mendini by Cecilio MV500 Ebony Fitted Flamed 1-Piece Maple Back Violin + 1 Yr Warranty, Chromatic tuner w/ Metronome, 2 Bows, Extra Set of Strings, Shoulder Rest, Extra Bridge & Case in 4/4 (Full Size) I am a music major at Indiana State University who plays upright bass in orchestra, and was looking to expand my music knowledge to violin. To my surprise my parents picked this up for me. I attempted to tune it and the high e string broke. Not surprising. As a rule, ALWAYS put new string on an instrument right away. The strings it came with were old and low quality. Also be sure to clean the instrument. I was disturbed by the amount of filth that came off the finger board. When i was done with setting it up and such, the instrument i was left with was astounding. The sound and depth is very nice, and the finish is stunning. I'm very happy with it. The case is nice, but it did need to be cleaned. the bows are passable, the rosin..... buy new rosin. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , December 27, 2010

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  A couple minor things

  I am a student, not a professional but this violin has a couple of dings in it apparently from the factory. The bridge was indeed already installed and the strings tight which was a little worrisome but apparently didn't effect either. Ebony must be simply a description of the color because the materials used for the fingerboard, chin rest and tail piece are all different and none appear to be anything other than dyed wood (fingerboard) or nylon (plastic) or plastic for the tail piece and chin rest.That said, I can't comment on the rest of this item yet because I haven't had enough experience with it. I will update this review as needed.Update 5/28/11: My instructor can't keep his hands off this instrument. Not because it needs to be tuned constantly, quite the opposite, it holds it's tune for weeks and has really opened up in sound. He loves it and can't believe it was a cheap Chinese manufacture! Score one for bargain shopping! 5/5 Chad Kovac (Iowa) - See all my reviews, January 18, 2011

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  Great Quality. Lots of Extras!

  I ordered my violin with 1-day shipping and they weren't kidding. I had the violin in my possession and signed for within 24 hours! First off the case is a good quality hard plastic case with secure fasteners on either end to ensure the violin stay protected. When I opened it I was so surprised to see a ton of extra stuff I didn't know came with it! It came with an extra bridge, extra set of strings and two bows! Like previous reviews have stated(and were wrong) the strings were not too tight so when I tune it I hardly doubt the strings will snap. The violin itself seems to be in great condition. I don't see any flaws on it at all. The rosin I will not lie is a cheap quality so your probably better off going to a music store to buy a different rosin. All in all this is a great violin that sounds great and I'm going to have so much fun with it. Hope this was helpful. 5/5 Daniel C. Smith (Fort Polk, LA) - See all my reviews, March 1, 2011

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  List Price: $374.99
  

  1 Year Warranty Against Manufacture's Defects

  Ebony fingerboard, chin rest, and pegs, Ebony tailpiece with mother of pearl inlay and 4 detachable fine tuners

  4/4 (Full Size) Solid hand carved spruce top, Solid hand carved 1-piece flamed maple back and sides, Beautiful inlaid purfling and varnish finish

  Includes: 2(two) violin bow w/unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair, hard case, adjustable shoulder rest, rosin, extra bridge and an extra set of strings

  FREE Cecilio 92D Chromatic/String Tuner with Metronome

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