String Theory - Bismarck

Why is important to buy a "good" violin versus an instrument that is inexpensive off of Amazon or other retailers?

Have you ever heard of a VSO? That's a Violin-shaped object. These retailer instruments are VSOs - they are not set up properly and not made of quality materials. It's tempting to try one, but it's a complete waste of time and money! I've seen them, changed strings on them, played them, and every time I'm disappointed. The bridges are too high, the strings are junk, the pegs don't turn, the bows are warped, etc. making them hard to play and sound terrible. When an instrument is difficult to play and the learning process is already hard, students often get discouraged. That's why this is important :)

Rentals are wonderful - you can try something out and know the instrument is set up properly and turn it back in if it isn't the right fit. For whatever reason, if that's not right for you and you'd rather purchase an instrument, please reach out! I'd love to help you find the right fitting instrument and a cost less than a year's rental fee. Plus, I'm here if you have questions, accidently drop an instrument, or anything in between. Let's get these kiddos playing!

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Straight off of the truck from New Jersey! I called and spoke with the maker to get a rough valuation - $1000-1500 is what these sold for years ago. He said it sounds and plays more like a $3000 instrument! I am not going to lie, I seriously thought about keeping this as my primary violin. 😬

It looks beautiful, it sounds beautiful, and is a joy to play! Can't wait to have it go to some lucky person! 😍

(It's a possibility this instrument is already spoken for - someone had asked to learn when I got one of this caliber in stock so I have reached out - if it ends up being available, I am happy to provide more information!)

Instruments, galore!

As of today, I have:
1/2 sized violins from $125 - $200
3/4 sized violins from $150 - $185
Full sized violins from $140-$425 (beginner through advanced)
14" violas from $200-$1100

..or can find you what you need! Just reach out!

As a side note, I do buy back smaller instruments or beginner 4/4's if you're looking to upgrade at 50% your purchase price (assuming they aren't in pieces due to misuse). This allows me to change strings, make repairs, etc. And keep prices low for the next student! Then you're not stuck with an instrument you no longer need.

I can also make repairs, change strings, or answer any maintenance questions you may have.

The summer is progressing and people are starting to think about violins, violas, and cellos for school!

I just received this beautiful violin - probably about 70-80 years old that was made in Germany. I am working on repairing a few seams that have split and hope it will soon be in the hands of an aspiring musician. 😍

This is a perfect example of the type of instrument I look for - older but obviously played on (take a look at the fingerboard - someone really loved this one!) It came with 2 new dominant strings (not the cheap ones) and the bow was recently rehaired. Even with some old strings, this instrument sings. The tone is beautiful and could really help a budding musician shine. It will come with a new case, since the case it showed up in has seen better days, and will end up being $250.

SO much better than shopping on Amazon ;)

After a nice, long break, I'm easing back into it! Life is a little hectic now with 2-year old triplets but I am excited to offer instruments again! The set-up is coming along.

Right now, please feel free to reach out if you are looking for any size violin, viola, or cello. I have many violins and a couple violas currently.

As before, my goal is to provide quality student (and periodically intermediate) instruments at reasonable prices as an alternative to renting. Small repairs can also be done! If you have any questions, please reach out!

Current inventory:
1/4 violin
3 - 1/2 violins
3/4 violin
4 - 4/4 violins

11" viola (1/4 size)
15" viola
16" viola (burl wood back and inlays)

3/4 cello

Prices range from $100-$475 depending on size and instrument. I also have a beautiful 100-year old Lyon & Eureka violin available for $950.

Please let me know if you are interested in any of these instruments!!

Life has been a little crazy and is about to get crazier! Due to personal circumstances I am going to step back a bit and am looking to sell most of my inventory. As always, each instrument will come with a bow, case, and rosin. Also, if you are in need of repairs, I will be available to help! Everyone is healthy, my husband is just starting Grad School on top of working full time!

I'm so thankful for everyone who has supported me thus far and look forward to supporting our aspiring musicians again in the near future 💗

We are LONG overdue for an update:
-23 instruments have found new homes
-3 are awaiting pickup
-Instruments are now being posted on the Marketplace page for ease of searching and management
-If you are looking for anything specific, please send me a message!

And finally I am getting in violas!!! I'm working on one but this 14" Lewis Selmer is ready! It has some chips and scratches but none of them affect the integrity of the instrument. It is student ready and sounds really good! $120.

Today we have two more to add - I'll start with this beautiful 4/4 C. Becker violin. Wow. It is so easy to play and would be perfect for someone who has violin experience and just wants to expand their capabilities. It has beautiful boxwood pegs, tailpiece and chinrest. It is in excellent condition and comes with a Glasser bow that was just rehaired! This one is my most expensive yet, but definitely a keeper at $200.

More fun this week! Here's a 4/4 Anton Breton ready for it's new home - it also comes with a fiber glass Holtz bow and it certainly has a voice. It came with strings that are in good shape but sound a little tinny. Still, I have a really hard time discarding perfectly good strings, even if they aren't exactly warm. But, if you'd like, I can restring it for an extra $17.

This is a great deal at $100!