Can someone help me choose the right instrument?

Question

I'm going to be taking on another instrument (either a Violin, Viola, or Cello). There are a few things i need to know first. For example, what's a good brand that has a beginner-price-range? Can someone reccommend a brand that has a good sound for a low price for a beginning student? I'll probably have to go with Violin because that's all I will be able to find in my area. I wouldn't suppose the brands vary by instrument... I basically want a good instrument that's not anything over 500 dollars (and thats for a Cello! I wont pay 500 for my FIRST violin)

Thanks for the help! It's greatly appreciated!

-Also, can someone direct me to an ONLINE way to purchase said instrument? The only music store around here's violin's are about 1000 dollars, so I have to get it somewhere else.

Answer 1

Many of the price-related questions you can answer by checking out these online options for purchasing an instrument:

www.swstrings.com

www.sharmusic.com

www.wwbw.com (click on stringed instruments)

As for what instrument to play, you mentioned that this will be ANOTHER instrument, indicating that you already play something.  It may help to stick with the clef you're familiar with.  Violin music is written in treble clef, viola music is written in alto clef, and cello and bass music is written in bass clef.  If you have large hands, cello or bass would probably be easier than if you're on the small side.  Also, figure if instrument portability is a factor for you, or the role that instrument usually plays.  For instance, violins usually play the melodic line, and the highest notes (these are also considered by many to be the most challenging, having more/faster notes than other parts).  Violas usually play harmony, which can be more interesting aurally if you are easily bored with the melody!  Cellos are a mixed bag, sometimes playing melody, sometimes harmony, and sometimes doubling the bass line.  Basses of course will play the bass line most often (usually not rhythmically challenging, but basses do more shifting than the rest of the string instruments), though if you're interested in jazz, bass is commonly used in this genre, and will give you the option of improvisation.  Which instrument will largely be a matter of personal taste.  I realize you didn't mention bass in your original post, but I figured I'd throw it in there anyway...