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Orchestra Information to consider when purchasing an instrument
Please see me for information regarding where you can purchase an instrument. You can always find a list of music stores online.
Tips:
- Purchasing an instrument may take time. Be patient and get something you really like.
- Always call the store before you visit it to make sure they carry the instrument you are looking for. The all stores sell basses.
- Know your price range before you go to the stores.
- Always play the instrument before you buy it. Try out a few instruments in the same price range before you make a decision. It is easier to compare. Keep in mind if you were to change the strings or the bow being used this might change the sound and tone quality of the instrument.
- Bring along the same piece of music to play at each store. You can compare the sound of the music as well as the difficulty in playing it on that instrument.
Instrument Outfits:
Instruments can sometimes be purchased as an “outfit.” This means you will get the instrument, a bow and a case for one price. This may or may not be worthwhile. It depends on your needs and the price.
Cases:
Do you want a lightweight case?
Is it a locking case?
Do you want certain straps? Back pack, etc.
Violin Specific:
New Pirastro Strings
Gold E string
Caspiri (gear) pegs if possible
Fine tuners (better instruments only have an e string fine tuner)
7 Things to consider when buying a string instrument:
Playability: You should be able to move from string to string freely with an even tone across the strings.
Tone and Sound: Check for any buzzing as you play and be sure that you are getting the projection and tone that you desire. (Violin: Are you looking for an instrument with a warm upper register or do you prefer a bright sound in the higher strings?)
Price: Does it fit your budget? Be sure the quality of the instrument or outfit you are buying matches the price tag attached.
Craftsmanship: Is the finish sprayed or brushed? Is the top hand carved or factory-pressed? The craftsmanship of the instrument contributes greatly to the instruments quality and potential resale value.
Setup: Do the pegs, chin rest, bridge and strings fit well? You should be able to play each string clearly without brushing against other strings- if not it could mean your bridge or fingerboard needs adjustment. Do the pegs feel light? Is the neck set at the correct angle? You should be able to press each string all the way down at the part of the fingerboard closest to the bridge, if not your shop can adjust the strings and bridge accordingly. Be sure to address any problems before you leave with a new instrument.
The Package: When purchasing a complete outfit: is the quality consistent across the board? Check the quality of the bow (look for pernambuco bows with true horsehair, not fiberglass bows with synthetic hair.) Will the case protect your instrument? Some dealers are open to mixing and matching outfit options. You may be able to purchase a better bow and safer case for the same price or just a fraction more.
The Dealer or Shop: Be sure to ask about trade –ins and trade-up policies. Some shops selling starter instruments will buy back instruments and direct part of that money to your purchase of a step-up instrument. (-Richard Ward)
6 Things to look for when buying a bow:
Type of Material: Brazilwood (prices usually seen between $50 and $200); pernambuco (priced anywhere from $100 to $10,000 or more); carbon fiber (prices anywhere between $50 and several thousand dollars); fiberglass (usually lowest price option).
Sound: Look for a bow that will give both a smooth, broad sound and at the same time posses great clarity of focus and the quickness of response that comes from a stronger, stiffer bow.
Weight and balance: Look for a bow that feels right in your hand. To test the weight, pick up a bow and hold it at a 45 degree angle. It should feel natural in the hand- well- balanced from tip to frog with equal weight throughout.
Shape: Round or octagonal? With two bows made from the same wood, the octagonal shaft will be stiffer, creating a hard, one dimensional tone, lacking nuance. Some of the German commercial bow producers make round and octagonal versions of the same bow, the octagonal being a bit more expensive. This has added to the myth that octagonal bows are better.
Price: Establish a budget, but do expect to look at bows that are a little more expensive. If you don’t know much about bows, try a lot of bows to educate yourself about what is available.
Test: When you go bow shopping be sure to bring your own instrument and current bow with you as a benchmark. Each bow will perform differently on different instruments; remember that you’re looking for a bow that complements your instrument. I normally show six bows at a time. Once you've chosen two from that batch ask to see more. Play the same very brief passage with each bow, one right after another. There’s a good chance that one or two will stand out. (-Richard Ward)
When you decide on an instrument check that:
- All the instrument seams are glued shut.
- There is no split wood.
- Curved bridge so you can hit all the strings with ease
- Get a horsehair bow that tightens correctly
- Do the pegs tune easily (do they keep slipping, are they too tight to turn)?
Enjoy finding your new instrument and be patient!
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