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Editor's picks

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  4/4 Beginner's Violin Set with Carrying Case and Accessories

  Toy (Generic)
  

  Rating (55 reviews):

  (3.2/5)

  

  Fair quality for the price, but that price is rather low.

  When I first got this (my first violin), I was quite impressed with it. It came in a nice case, had a strap to retain the neck in the case, and was rather shiny.Later however I managed to snag an inexpensive retired rental off of ebay and had a nice comparison. Compared to a more expensive yet heavily beat up rental, this violin has pegs which slip a lot. You'll need peg drops or a lot of patience to continue to reset them. The rosin does work, but it's fairly horrible. Bridge is uncut and feels much more fragile than the rental. Strings sound... oddly hollow compared to the Thomastik Dominant strings I have on the former rental.Overall I would recommend this to an adult with some degree of patience. If you're buying this for a child, you had better be ready to add new strings, better rosin, peg drops, and perhaps be prepared for its viable lifetime to be rather short. I haven't owned it long enough to know for sure, but from the guides I've read on... 3/5 R. Hiranaka - See all my reviews This review is from: 4/4 Beginner's Violin Set with Carrying Case and Accessories (Toy) When I first got this (my first violin), I was quite impressed with it. It came in a nice case, had a strap to retain the neck in the case, and was rather shiny.Later however I managed to snag an inexpensive retired rental off of ebay and had a nice comparison. Compared to a more expensive yet heavily beat up rental, this violin has pegs which slip a lot. You'll need peg drops or a lot of patience to continue to reset them. The rosin does work, but it's fairly horrible. Bridge is uncut and feels much more fragile than the rental. Strings sound... oddly hollow compared to the Thomastik Dominant strings I have on the former rental.Overall I would recommend this to an adult with some degree of patience. If you're buying this for a child, you had better be ready to add new strings, better rosin, peg drops, and perhaps be prepared for its viable lifetime to be rather short. I haven't owned it long enough to know for sure, but from the guides I've read on... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , February 24, 2010

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  Check with an instructor before you buy.

  This is my 1st violin, but when I went to my 1st lesson, I was informed that the bridge and strings needed to be replaced.For a few dollars more get a better one.The rosin I got was broken.I do like the case however you can't keep sheet music in the pocket without folding it.I don't like the velco on the neck as it snags the strings.Overall it's ok for a 1st violin. 2/5 Echo (CT.) - See all my reviews This review is from: 4/4 Beginner's Violin Set with Carrying Case and Accessories (Toy) This is my 1st violin, but when I went to my 1st lesson, I was informed that the bridge and strings needed to be replaced.For a few dollars more get a better one.The rosin I got was broken.I do like the case however you can't keep sheet music in the pocket without folding it.I don't like the velco on the neck as it snags the strings.Overall it's ok for a 1st violin. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , February 28, 2010

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  Needs new strings.

  I bought this violin for my little brother for $70 here at Amazon, and for the price, you can't ask for much more. Once the Orchestra Teacher changed the strings, she said that it's actually a really good violin for beginners. 5/5 Ludwid Reyes (Las Vegas, NV USA) - See all my reviews, September 3, 2009

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  List Price: $99.95
  Price: $36.48
  You Save: $63.47 (64%)

  It 'an absolute tool, professionally done and comes with a difficult case admirably

  The sounds are incrediable: beautiful, and stay in tune.

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  The ABCs of Violin for the Absolute Beginner, Book 1 (Book & CD)

  Book (Carl Fischer)
  

  Rating (126 reviews):

  (4.2/5)

  

  The ABCs of Violin for the Absolute Beginner

  The ABC's of Violin has played an enormous role in fulfilling my dream of learning to play the violin. I'm overwhelmed by the simplicity of its approach, and it's underlying structure that has so effectively developed my skills. New concepts and techniques are introduced in such a logical manner as to further a student's development while limiting the frustrations and intimidation that frequently accompany a new undertaking such as learning an instrument. I also enjoy the vast repertoire of material presented throughout the book. The material ranges from focused studies to actual songs, encompassing nearly every genre imaginable, from classical to folk. Many of these songs are famous, others are slightly more obscure, but each cleverly selected to introduce a new element or concept at precisely the right time. The variety of music selection has also expanded the future directions that I hope to take my violin playing. I also highly recommend acquiring the accompanying CD... 5/5 ken (Boston, MA USA) - See all my reviews This review is from: The ABCs of Violin for the Absolute Beginner: Violin, Book 1 (Paperback) The ABC's of Violin has played an enormous role in fulfilling my dream of learning to play the violin. I'm overwhelmed by the simplicity of its approach, and it's underlying structure that has so effectively developed my skills. New concepts and techniques are introduced in such a logical manner as to further a student's development while limiting the frustrations and intimidation that frequently accompany a new undertaking such as learning an instrument. I also enjoy the vast repertoire of material presented throughout the book. The material ranges from focused studies to actual songs, encompassing nearly every genre imaginable, from classical to folk. Many of these songs are famous, others are slightly more obscure, but each cleverly selected to introduce a new element or concept at precisely the right time. The variety of music selection has also expanded the future directions that I hope to take my violin playing. I also highly recommend acquiring the accompanying CD... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , July 25, 2003

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  Best book by far for adult beginner

  I had always wanted to learn how to play the violin and finally decided to take the plunge last year. It seemed like a good idea to buy some starter books that would help me learn how. I picked up three such books that had been recommended to me. By far the best was the "ABCs of Violin for the Absolute Beginner." The notes were easy to read and the tunes were really fun to play. New ideas were introduced at a good pace--not pushy fast, not pokey slow--just right. I could keep up without feeling overwhelmed, but I felt like I was learning something, too. I'm now near the end of Book 2 of the series and having a blast! Can't wait to try out Book 3. The other two method books I bought just didn't cut it for me. They seemed harder to understand and threw a lot at you all at once. It was the ABCs that really made me want to keep playing--no contest as far as I'm concerned, at least. 5/5 "gregw9902" (Tucson, AZ) - See all my reviews This review is from: The ABCs of Violin for the Absolute Beginner: Violin, Book 1 (Paperback) I had always wanted to learn how to play the violin and finally decided to take the plunge last year. It seemed like a good idea to buy some starter books that would help me learn how. I picked up three such books that had been recommended to me. By far the best was the "ABCs of Violin for the Absolute Beginner." The notes were easy to read and the tunes were really fun to play. New ideas were introduced at a good pace--not pushy fast, not pokey slow--just right. I could keep up without feeling overwhelmed, but I felt like I was learning something, too. I'm now near the end of Book 2 of the series and having a blast! Can't wait to try out Book 3. The other two method books I bought just didn't cut it for me. They seemed harder to understand and threw a lot at you all at once. It was the ABCs that really made me want to keep playing--no contest as far as I'm concerned, at least. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , May 10, 2004

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  Yes, for the absolute beginner

  I started off by using this book when I decided to teach myself the violin, and I'm very happy I did. The finger placement charts really helped me get started right. It's been a lot of fun using the book, because I can play famous melodies I'm familiar with. I also thought the author's original tunes were nice. And after doing the warm-up exercises, it was really easy to play the melodies that came after.Yes indeed, this is a book for an absolute beginner on the violin--and I ought to know. I was one just a few months ago. Now, I'm in book 2 of the series and enjoying it. And I didn't need a teacher, either.I'd recommend this book very highly. 5/5 T. J. Carpenter - See all my reviews, June 17, 2005

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  List Price: $9.95
  

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  4/4 Full Size Student Violin Starter Kit (Bow, Rosin, Case)

  Musical Instruments (Generic)
  

  Rating (102 reviews):

  (3.6/5)

  

  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: 4/4 Full Size Student Violin Starter Kit (Bow, Rosin, Case) 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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  5 Stars for a violin in this price range

  I'll be honest, I only ordered this violin because I was curious. I have been playing for twelve years and recently decided it might be fun to try a new violin instead of the one I've had since I was a teenager. I ordered a couple of cheapies with Christmas gift card money (yay for gift cards!) and honestly, of the three I got, this was the best.Here's the scoop on this violin package:- The Case.You'll get a rigid foam case. It's not very high quality, but it'll protect your instrument when stored around the house. It has a nice pocket, a zipper, and space for two bows. I won't complain about the case. None of this stuff is very high quality, but look at the price.-Rosin. I like extra dark colophane rosin so I'll probably just throw this away, but that's just my preference. It's nice that it's here. I didn't try using it, but it looks like you'll have to score it a few times with a butter knife to get it going. This is normal.-The Bow... 5/5 Rorschach - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: 4/4 Full Size Student Violin Starter Kit (Bow, Rosin, Case) I'll be honest, I only ordered this violin because I was curious. I have been playing for twelve years and recently decided it might be fun to try a new violin instead of the one I've had since I was a teenager. I ordered a couple of cheapies with Christmas gift card money (yay for gift cards!) and honestly, of the three I got, this was the best.Here's the scoop on this violin package:- The Case.You'll get a rigid foam case. It's not very high quality, but it'll protect your instrument when stored around the house. It has a nice pocket, a zipper, and space for two bows. I won't complain about the case. None of this stuff is very high quality, but look at the price.-Rosin. I like extra dark colophane rosin so I'll probably just throw this away, but that's just my preference. It's nice that it's here. I didn't try using it, but it looks like you'll have to score it a few times with a butter knife to get it going. This is normal.-The Bow... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , December 30, 2011

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  Yep - its cheap - but it does play.

  I listen to all the 'moaners' out there, some who profess to be 'professionals'. I bought one of these because I was curious. I've been playing for a short while, have much nicer violins. If you set this one up properly, it plays just fine. Certainly, its sound is restricted - its lacquered. Sure the wood is wierd looking, but tuned (and any violin pegs will slip if not handled correctly), it will hold a student just fine. I play because its fun to play, and I play this violin because its fun to play. You 'moaners' who are strung too tight need to relax and let those who can't afford to pay for a more expensive instrument have fun too. Stop wailing and start being a teacher. Help your students like you're supposed to. You stuck your snooty noses out there and this is to remind you that music is magic and there for everyone. If you want to learn to play violin, buy this violin (vso if you like) and welcome to the wonderful world of music. Tip - find a real teacher, and when... 3/5 David Joseph - See all my reviews This review is from: 4/4 Full Size Student Violin Starter Kit (Bow, Rosin, Case) I listen to all the 'moaners' out there, some who profess to be 'professionals'. I bought one of these because I was curious. I've been playing for a short while, have much nicer violins. If you set this one up properly, it plays just fine. Certainly, its sound is restricted - its lacquered. Sure the wood is wierd looking, but tuned (and any violin pegs will slip if not handled correctly), it will hold a student just fine. I play because its fun to play, and I play this violin because its fun to play. You 'moaners' who are strung too tight need to relax and let those who can't afford to pay for a more expensive instrument have fun too. Stop wailing and start being a teacher. Help your students like you're supposed to. You stuck your snooty noses out there and this is to remind you that music is magic and there for everyone. If you want to learn to play violin, buy this violin (vso if you like) and welcome to the wonderful world of music. Tip - find a real teacher, and when... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , October 31, 2011

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  List Price: $299.99
  

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

  Maple back and sides with solid spruce top

  Full size 4/4 violin

  Alloy tailpiece with 4 fine tuners

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  Mendini 4/4 MV300 Solid Wood Violin in Satin Finish with Hard Case, Shoulder Rest, Bow, Rosin and Extra Strings - Full Size

  Musical Instruments (Cecilio Musical Instruments)
  

  Rating (324 reviews):

  (3.3/5)

  

  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 4/4 MV300 Solid Wood Violin in Satin Finish with Hard Case, Shoulder Rest, Bow, Rosin and Extra Strings - Full Size (Electronics) 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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  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 4/4 MV300 Solid Wood Violin in Satin Finish with Hard Case, Shoulder Rest, Bow, Rosin and Extra Strings - Full Size (Electronics) 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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  Amazing for $59

  My granddaughters started learning on some child-sized versions of this violin. I play a little piano and clarinet and couldn't resist trying out their violins. I had so much fun with them that I decided to order a full size version. How could you go wrong for $59? Well I don't think you can. My copy (the body) is nicely made. True the fingerboard appears to be painted wood rather than ebony and true the fine tune adjusters don't work extremely well and true that the bridge (both of them that came with the kit) folded nearly in half when the violin was tuned but all that aside, this violin sounds very nice to my untrained ear and for a beginner is easy to play in terms of finger action on the strings. I've read complaints about problems with tuning and pegs slipping. I had that problem with the violin too at first. However, now after two weeks of use the violin's strings have stretched and for the past few days i can pull it out of its case without needing to do a complete... 3/5 Terry D. Peterson "terrylaw" (Marysville WA) - See all my reviews, October 25, 2011

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  List Price: $199.99
  

  Brazil wood bow with unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair

  1 Year Warranty Against Manufacturer's Defects

  Alloy tailpiece with 4 built-in fine tuners

  4/4 (Full Size) violin with solid wood spruce top, maple back, neck and sides with beautiful satin varnish finish

  Includes: Lightweight hard case, adjustable shoulder rest, 2 bridges, quality rosin cake, and an extra set of violin strings.

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  Barcelona Beginner Series 4/4-Size Violin with Case, Rosin, Bow, Bridge, and Strings - Natural

  Musical Instruments (Barcelona)
  

  Rating (7 reviews):

  (4.1/5)

  

  Cant complain about it. Cant even find anything to niggle really

  I'm no violin expert. I picked up this violin to try to motivate my kid by learning with him. It looks better, sounds better and tunes easier than my son's $500 1/4 german violin. Its not made from high dollar materials, but it sounds loudly and resonates nicely. It looks better than my sons violin. Plastic fine tuner. Not perfect at all, but $60.... Come on... As long as it works that should be enough.Nice case, usable bow, resin...I have no training in strings, but i do play brass and percussion and it sounds fine to me. im frankly astounded that they can put this all together for this price. I'd expect to pay more for a fake decorative instrument. The fact it plays nicely is gravy. 5/5 B. Rowland - See all my reviews, September 10, 2012

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  Seems Just Fine

  Just got it. I'm not a very good violin player, but do have another violin that is an antique, and I didn't want to have it just laying around, and got this one to be "expendable" if necessary. For $55, and all that comes with it, wow. Get on utube or the internet and look up how to set the bridge correctly. Easy to do. The strings will get out of tune immediately for the first several hours of retightening them. Just expect that. Then they will settle in and stay in tune. I have had no trouble with the tightening knobs slipping. They turn smoothly and stay in place after tightening. Just push inward some as you tighten and they will wedge in properly. I did break an E string quickly. The E string is the smallest one and has the most tension. Expect that. Get a couple of extra Es from a music store. A better one will not break as easily, but still do break sometimes. The tone of the violin for the price is just great. Actually, for the price, it's all great... 5/5 roger - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Barcelona Beginner Series 4/4-Size Violin with Case, Rosin, Bow, Bridge, and Strings - Natural Just got it. I'm not a very good violin player, but do have another violin that is an antique, and I didn't want to have it just laying around, and got this one to be "expendable" if necessary. For $55, and all that comes with it, wow. Get on utube or the internet and look up how to set the bridge correctly. Easy to do. The strings will get out of tune immediately for the first several hours of retightening them. Just expect that. Then they will settle in and stay in tune. I have had no trouble with the tightening knobs slipping. They turn smoothly and stay in place after tightening. Just push inward some as you tighten and they will wedge in properly. I did break an E string quickly. The E string is the smallest one and has the most tension. Expect that. Get a couple of extra Es from a music store. A better one will not break as easily, but still do break sometimes. The tone of the violin for the price is just great. Actually, for the price, it's all great... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , February 13, 2013

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  Worth the money

  It is a quality product for a beginner like me. I really love the product an hope to get many years of enjoyment out of it!! 5/5 Joann Conforti - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Barcelona Beginner Series 4/4-Size Violin with Case, Rosin, Bow, Bridge, and Strings - Natural It is a quality product for a beginner like me. I really love the product an hope to get many years of enjoyment out of it!! Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , March 12, 2013

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  List Price: $149.99
  Price: $44.95
  You Save: $105.04 (70%)

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

  Glossed finish to protect from scratching and surface wear

  Package includes Case, Rosin, Bow, Bridge, and Extra Strings

  Priced for the beginning player

  Made from hand-carved maple with spruce top

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  Essential Elements 2000 for Strings: Book 1 with CD-ROM (Violin)

  Book (Hal Leonard Corporation)
  

  Rating (83 reviews):

  (4.2/5)

  

  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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  excellent violin method

  This is an excellent first book for the violin. I have started learning violin again after a 24 year break! This book is aesthetic, has very clear instructions and diagrams and is designed beautifully. The progression of the exercises is completely logical, allowing you to perfect each technique before moving on. Every symbol is explained clearly, no new note or technique is found in exercises that come before their explanation. There are numerous scale and arpeggio exercises that are marked with a different background color, making it easier to find them. There are many orchestra arrangements (mostly duets), and even a duet with piano accompaniment. The accompanying discs are an added attraction. I don't particularly make very much use of them, but they can make practicing more interesting for children who generally have less discipline. This is a much better series than The ABCs of Violin. 5/5 P. Meyer "music lover" (Israel) - See all my reviews, March 11, 2005

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  List Price: $8.99
  

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  VIOLINSMART MV01 Violin Package (Size: 4/4, Color: Black)

  Toy (Crescent)
  

  Rating (89 reviews):

  (3.3/5)

  

  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 easy. I'm... 4/5 amarygma (MN, USA) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: VIOLINSMART MV01 Violin Package (Size: 4/4, Color: Black) (Toy) 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 easy. I'm... 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 MV01 Violin Package (Size: 4/4, Color: Black) (Toy) 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: $149.99
  

  Full Brazil wood Bows with unbleached horsehair

  Black Hardwood fingerboard, chinrest & pegs

  High Gloss Finish

  Lightweight Triangular canvas case, shoulder straps and Rosin included

  Solid Spruce top & Maple back and rib

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  The ABCs of Violin for the Absolute Beginner

  DVD (Carl Fischer/Eko Productions)
  

  Rating (49 reviews):

  (3.9/5)

  

  Thank you for this FANTASTIC BEGINNER VIOLIN DVD!!!!

  I am a visual art teacher who loves music but has never played any instrument. I thought the violin would be much too complicated until I bought this DVD!!! The teacher, Ms. Rhoda, is so precise about details and gives lots of repetition and reinforcement throughout -- she's VERY VERY THOROUGH!!! I especially like the bow hold section with precise directions for placement of each finger plus all the close-up views from every angle imaginable.The tuning section makes tuning my violin very easy. I can tune each string right along with the teacher.I completely understand where the finger dots go on the violin after her explanations throughout (these dots were easy to get at any store).Everything is verbally explained and visually demonstrated in detail so that there are no questions left!!Ms. Rhoda's perfomance of the musical pieces at the very end of the DVD is SO VERY INSPIRING! It makes my learning of the violin seem like so much fun... 5/5 V. Norkus (Boston, MA) - See all my reviews, December 30, 2006

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  Excellent DVD for Beginning Violin!

  This DVD along with the ABC's of Violin book 1 was a great way for me to start violin. I learned to read music, tune the violin and play Ode to Joy, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and Mary had a Little Lamb all in a week!It has everything you need if you are a stark beginner like me. I never played another instrument before but learned the music staff on screen, how to hold the violin and bow, pizzicato the strings, play with the bow. The actress who is the author of the book makes things clear and you can play along with her. It is a lot of fun! 5/5 Lisa Givens (Austin TX) - See all my reviews, April 10, 2006

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  A Very Worthwhile Purchase!

  I find this DVD very helpful in learning to play violin at home without a privateteacher or class instruction, and feel it's a good supplement for violin studentswith a teacher or class instruction of all ages as well.It's easy to follow, it's imformative, and it's encouraging for the absolute begin-ner, which I am at 58. 5/5 Cathie Beck (Ca, USA) - See all my reviews, February 13, 2007

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  List Price: $19.95
  

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  Violin For Dummies, 2nd Edition

  Book (For Dummies)
  

  Rating (10 reviews):

  (4.4/5)

  

  Incredibly thorough and helpful...

  I bought this because my boyfriend made me the gift of a violin for Christmas. My main instrument is the piano so I had no idea what I was doing with such a beautiful instrument. This book is a great starting point for musician as well as those who have never touched an instrument. You can skip parts if you are experienced enough to know them already, and everything is explained thoroughly, almost too thoroughly. I bought the Kindle edition so the videos are not readily available but from the text I can see that even the smallest technique is not only explained step by step, but is accompanied by a picture and a video. I advise anyone starting any instrument to keep a determined attitude and keep practicing, because it will not sound pretty at first. I look forward to continuing my violin education with this book. 5/5 forster - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Violin For Dummies, 2nd Edition (Kindle Edition) I bought this because my boyfriend made me the gift of a violin for Christmas. My main instrument is the piano so I had no idea what I was doing with such a beautiful instrument. This book is a great starting point for musician as well as those who have never touched an instrument. You can skip parts if you are experienced enough to know them already, and everything is explained thoroughly, almost too thoroughly. I bought the Kindle edition so the videos are not readily available but from the text I can see that even the smallest technique is not only explained step by step, but is accompanied by a picture and a video. I advise anyone starting any instrument to keep a determined attitude and keep practicing, because it will not sound pretty at first. I look forward to continuing my violin education with this book. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , January 11, 2013

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  Easy to understand

  Rather you are new to the violin, picking it back up after a long time of not playing, or experienced and just looking for some extra info or tips. This book is wonderfull and packed full of usefull, easy to understand instructions, tips, hints, and also comes with a CD that adds an extra engaging learning experience. Two thumbs up! 5/5 Charles Lanier - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Violin For Dummies, 2nd Edition (Paperback) Rather you are new to the violin, picking it back up after a long time of not playing, or experienced and just looking for some extra info or tips. This book is wonderfull and packed full of usefull, easy to understand instructions, tips, hints, and also comes with a CD that adds an extra engaging learning experience. Two thumbs up! Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , December 27, 2012

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  It explained so much.

  I'm an adult beginner so this book filled in so much information I'm missing because of not being in an orchestra with other people of my experience level. 5/5 Anitra Whittle - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Violin For Dummies, 2nd Edition (Paperback) I'm an adult beginner so this book filled in so much information I'm missing because of not being in an orchestra with other people of my experience level. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , December 26, 2012

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  List Price: $24.99
  

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  The Instrument Store TIS-200 Student Violin Full Size (4/4) with Ebony Fittings, Case and Bow

  Musical Instruments (The Instrument Store)
  

  Rating (23 reviews):

  (3.3/5)

  

  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 (Electronics) 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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  A better than expected instrument for the price

  I bought this violin because I have been wanting to start playing again. I played for 9 years but stopped after high school. It has been 12 years and while I still have my wonderful violin at my mom's house, I worried about shipping it here. (I live on an island in the middle of the Bering Sea right now) My violin at home has a rich beautiful sound, but is several thousand dollars, so that is to be expected.This violin is great for the price, definitely not as forgiving as I would like, but I am rusty and it is an inexpensive violin. For the price, it is better quality than what I expected and I am pleased for now.I am going to start teaching my daughter violin and have been practicing with this one for several days now. Overall I am very satisfied. 4/5 Mom to nut "Mom to nut" (remote Alaska) - 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 (Electronics) I bought this violin because I have been wanting to start playing again. I played for 9 years but stopped after high school. It has been 12 years and while I still have my wonderful violin at my mom's house, I worried about shipping it here. (I live on an island in the middle of the Bering Sea right now) My violin at home has a rich beautiful sound, but is several thousand dollars, so that is to be expected.This violin is great for the price, definitely not as forgiving as I would like, but I am rusty and it is an inexpensive violin. For the price, it is better quality than what I expected and I am pleased for now.I am going to start teaching my daughter violin and have been practicing with this one for several days now. Overall I am very satisfied. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , December 11, 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 (Electronics) 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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  List Price: $299.99
  

  Professional setup in our NY workshop

  Genuine ebony pegs and fingerboard with a classic brown finish.

  Seasoned spruce top with maple back and sides. Ebony Fittings, Four Fine tuners

  Excellent violin outfit for the beginning student. Rich tone, quality components and craftsmanship. See additional photos.

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

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