Violins and other instruments - http://theglassviolin.com

Editor's picks

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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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  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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  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)

  Alloy tailpiece with 4 fine tuners

  Full size 4/4 violin

  Maple back and sides with solid spruce top

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  Suzuki Violin School CD, Volume 1

  Music (Summy-Birchard Music)
  

  Rating (3 reviews):

  (4.7/5)

  

  Great CD

  WE love this CD. My 7 YO daughter is taking violin lessons and this CD stays in the car. WE listen all the time, and I even find myself whistling these tunes. My 1 YO son even hums along! 5/5 M. Ament "mhoward8" (Maryville, TN United States) - See all my reviews, April 30, 2011

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  Just what we needed

  I ordered this CD as a replacement for the one we lost. It works fine and was just what I expected. 5/5 Lisa - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Suzuki Violin School CD, Volume 1 (Audio CD) I ordered this CD as a replacement for the one we lost. It works fine and was just what I expected. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , December 6, 2012

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  used CD

  It is OK. Except some songs can't be played properly. Overall speaking, it is fine. ESP this CD is not available at local store 4/5 Derek - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Suzuki Violin School CD, Volume 1 (Audio CD) It is OK. Except some songs can't be played properly. Overall speaking, it is fine. ESP this CD is not available at local store Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , October 31, 2011

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  List Price: $15.99
  

  Volume 1

  CD

  The Suzuki Method

  Violin School

  Performed by David Nadien

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  Violin For Dummies, 2nd Edition

  Book (For Dummies)
  

  Rating (9 reviews):

  (4.3/5)

  

  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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  My Violin

  Software (eMedia)
  

  Rating (17 reviews):

  (4.4/5)

  

  So easy even I can do it.

  I just got my copie of "My Violin" today in the mail. After playing with the program for about 3-4 hours, I have to say I LOVE! it. I am 31 years old, and I'm just now begining to learn the violin. I have had no priore contact with reading music or ever playing it before , which is why I picked this program. It was ment to be use for children 6 and up, and my only thought was, "Hey if a 6 year old can learn to play violin off this, then maybe I can as well." The program is truly simple to follow, easy to understand, mixes video and visual componates at EVERY step, and passivly teaches you how to read music and learn rythm. The instructor obviously loves teaching and is very friendly and easy to understand. It is a bit childish in its content, how ever it was designed for children! as an adult beginner i realy recomend this program not only for kids, but anyone who may have a hard time learning. The use of games to help remember the lessons and the use of video help was... 5/5 Taira Hopkins "I have loved the stars to fond... (Eugene , OR USA) - See all my reviews, February 7, 2009

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  Pleased

  I bought the guitar version for my 6 year old son, and being the good mother that I am I got the violin version for myself to learn the violin that I received as a graduation gift for college. Cant have the boy doing "lessons" if Mom is ducking, right?Well, I must say that I am impressed with this software. You do not need to have any background whatsoever in music, which I don't. My son is very enthusiastic, and I have practiced everyday since it arrived. My three year old daughter is now asking for a violin for her birthday.The animated characters are not annoying at all, and the games are brief, but meaningful. The games are like pop quizes that give you a wake-up call to point out where your short-comings are so you can reveiw if neccessary.Another feature about the software I like is that you don't need the disc to run it. My husband has gotten a guitar so that he can play with the boy, and we have the software installed on 3 different... 5/5 WM Momma (Illinios) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: My Violin (CD-ROM) I bought the guitar version for my 6 year old son, and being the good mother that I am I got the violin version for myself to learn the violin that I received as a graduation gift for college. Cant have the boy doing "lessons" if Mom is ducking, right?Well, I must say that I am impressed with this software. You do not need to have any background whatsoever in music, which I don't. My son is very enthusiastic, and I have practiced everyday since it arrived. My three year old daughter is now asking for a violin for her birthday.The animated characters are not annoying at all, and the games are brief, but meaningful. The games are like pop quizes that give you a wake-up call to point out where your short-comings are so you can reveiw if neccessary.Another feature about the software I like is that you don't need the disc to run it. My husband has gotten a guitar so that he can play with the boy, and we have the software installed on 3 different... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , May 10, 2010

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  My Violin Promotional Video

  Customer Video Review Length:: 2:50 Mins 5/5 eMedia Representative - See all my reviews This review is from: My Violin (CD-ROM), April 22, 2011

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  List Price: $49.95
  

  Creative interactive games make learning fun and exciting

  Over 160 lessons featuring basic techniques, rhythm tunes and popular songs

  Animated Fingerboard shows correct fingerings as the music plays

  Over 70 large-format full-motion videos guide kids through playing techniques

  Finger Tracker listens to kids play and shows whether fingers are placed correctly

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  Easy Classical Violin Solos: Featuring music of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Vivaldi and other composers.

  eBooks (Marco Musica)
  

  Rating (15 reviews):

  (4.3/5)

  

  Good Clean Classical Fun

  This is an outstanding beginner book. There are probably two or three songs that are a little above beginner level but most of the pieces are easy and fun to play. Most of the music has fingerings (finger numbers above the notes) which can be helpful for the beginner as long as it's not used as a crutch.The selections are very recognizable and if you listen to very much classical music at all then you'll undoubtedly know this music (or at least recognize it when you start playing it).I do wish it was a little longer as it's very short and would have rated it higher if they could have included a few more songs. However, for the price it seems to be a fair to good value.I run through almost every song in this book once a day when I practice; it's a great warm up. I'm happy to have this as part of my music collection. 4/5 Alex Gardener "A.G." - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Easy Classical Violin Solos: Featuring music of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Vivaldi and other composers. (Paperback) This is an outstanding beginner book. There are probably two or three songs that are a little above beginner level but most of the pieces are easy and fun to play. Most of the music has fingerings (finger numbers above the notes) which can be helpful for the beginner as long as it's not used as a crutch.The selections are very recognizable and if you listen to very much classical music at all then you'll undoubtedly know this music (or at least recognize it when you start playing it).I do wish it was a little longer as it's very short and would have rated it higher if they could have included a few more songs. However, for the price it seems to be a fair to good value.I run through almost every song in this book once a day when I practice; it's a great warm up. I'm happy to have this as part of my music collection. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , August 31, 2011

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  Perfect for Beginners

  This book is a perfect supplement for someone who can read music and has taken violin for a short time. The pieces are short and simple. Requires the ability to play in several keys. It is appropriate for someone who has finished most of Suzuki book 1. 5/5 Reader "Love to Read" (Arkansas) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Easy Classical Violin Solos: Featuring music of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Vivaldi and other composers. (Paperback) This book is a perfect supplement for someone who can read music and has taken violin for a short time. The pieces are short and simple. Requires the ability to play in several keys. It is appropriate for someone who has finished most of Suzuki book 1. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , October 7, 2011

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  just what i was looking for

  this book was exact what i was looking for, classical pieces in very easy format, when you have some practice you can start to innovate some changes and give them more live and passion. 4/5 gustavo - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Easy Classical Violin Solos: Featuring music of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Vivaldi and other composers. (Kindle Edition) this book was exact what i was looking for, classical pieces in very easy format, when you have some practice you can start to innovate some changes and give them more live and passion. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , April 6, 2012

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  List Price: $5.99
  

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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 (323 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
  

  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.

  Brazil wood bow with unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair

  Alloy tailpiece with 4 built-in fine tuners

  1 Year Warranty Against Manufacturer's Defects

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  Grace 3/4 Size White Violin for Beginners, Students with Case and Bow, Free Rosin and Extra Set of Strings for Replacement

  Toy (Grace)
  List Price: $99.99
  Price: $39.99
  You Save: $60.00 (60%)

  Hard case with shoulder strap .

  Wood stick, genuine white horsehair bow .

  Free Rosin and Extra Set of Strings for Replacement.

  Spruce top . Maple neck, back and sides .

  Hard wood pegs, fingerboard and chinrest .Alloy tailpiece with 4 built-in fine tuners .

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  Easy Classical Violin Solos: Featuring music of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Vivaldi and other composers.

  Book (CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform)
  

  Rating (15 reviews):

  (4.3/5)

  

  Good Clean Classical Fun

  This is an outstanding beginner book. There are probably two or three songs that are a little above beginner level but most of the pieces are easy and fun to play. Most of the music has fingerings (finger numbers above the notes) which can be helpful for the beginner as long as it's not used as a crutch.The selections are very recognizable and if you listen to very much classical music at all then you'll undoubtedly know this music (or at least recognize it when you start playing it).I do wish it was a little longer as it's very short and would have rated it higher if they could have included a few more songs. However, for the price it seems to be a fair to good value.I run through almost every song in this book once a day when I practice; it's a great warm up. I'm happy to have this as part of my music collection. 4/5 Alex Gardener "A.G." - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Easy Classical Violin Solos: Featuring music of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Vivaldi and other composers. (Paperback) This is an outstanding beginner book. There are probably two or three songs that are a little above beginner level but most of the pieces are easy and fun to play. Most of the music has fingerings (finger numbers above the notes) which can be helpful for the beginner as long as it's not used as a crutch.The selections are very recognizable and if you listen to very much classical music at all then you'll undoubtedly know this music (or at least recognize it when you start playing it).I do wish it was a little longer as it's very short and would have rated it higher if they could have included a few more songs. However, for the price it seems to be a fair to good value.I run through almost every song in this book once a day when I practice; it's a great warm up. I'm happy to have this as part of my music collection. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , August 31, 2011

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  Perfect for Beginners

  This book is a perfect supplement for someone who can read music and has taken violin for a short time. The pieces are short and simple. Requires the ability to play in several keys. It is appropriate for someone who has finished most of Suzuki book 1. 5/5 Reader "Love to Read" (Arkansas) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Easy Classical Violin Solos: Featuring music of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Vivaldi and other composers. (Paperback) This book is a perfect supplement for someone who can read music and has taken violin for a short time. The pieces are short and simple. Requires the ability to play in several keys. It is appropriate for someone who has finished most of Suzuki book 1. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , October 7, 2011

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  just what i was looking for

  this book was exact what i was looking for, classical pieces in very easy format, when you have some practice you can start to innovate some changes and give them more live and passion. 4/5 gustavo - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Easy Classical Violin Solos: Featuring music of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Vivaldi and other composers. (Kindle Edition) this book was exact what i was looking for, classical pieces in very easy format, when you have some practice you can start to innovate some changes and give them more live and passion. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , April 6, 2012

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  List Price: $9.99
  

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