Violins

Violins for Sale

About the Violin

The violin is one of the world's great musical instruments, capable of conjuring up joyful excitement and bittersweet melancholy — often in the same piece! The violin ranks among the most important instruments in classical music, delivering breathtaking melodies, harmonies and solos in the symphony orchestra and in chamber ensembles like the string quartet. The violin has also been a key instrument in roots styles like bluegrass, folk and country, and turns up in everything from indie rock to electronica

Understanding Violin Sizes

Violins are sized in fractions, which indicate the instrument's end-to-end length. Choosing the right size violin is the single most critical step for new players, as it ensures comfort, encourages proper technique and generally makes learning easier and more enjoyable. For help with sizing a violin, consult our String Instrument Sizing Guide or stop by your neighborhood Music & Arts location — more than 250 nationwide.

Understanding Violin Types: Acoustic vs. Electric

The two main categories of violins for sale cater to different performance needs:

• Acoustic Violins: These are the traditional wooden instruments known for their rich, warm tone. Acoustic violins are standard in orchestras — including school orchestras — as well as folk groups, bluegrass bands and other ensembles.
• Electric Violins: These instruments can be amplified like an electric guitar and are great for outdoor performances, quiet or silent practice and players who want to explore creative, adventurous sounds.

The Violin Outfit & Accessories

Entry-level violins are often packaged as “outfits” that typically include a high-quality instrument, a case or padded bag, and a bow made of wood or carbon fiber. Outfits may also include core accessories like rosin, which enables the bow to grip the strings, and a chin rest for enhanced comfort.

Most major manufacturers, including Bellafina, Eastman, Strobel and Cremona, sell their violins in these convenient packages.

To get a variety of key violin accessories in one affordable kit, Music & Arts recommends the Strobel Violin Starter Pack.

Shop for Violins at Music & Arts

Whether you're looking for an entry-level violin for school, a step-up instrument, or the latest and most advanced electric violin, Music & Arts has it all. Explore our vast selection of student, intermediate and professional violins for sale to find the perfect match for your musical journey.

Violin Buying FAQs

What are the main considerations when shopping for a beginner violin?

If you're brand-new to the violin, focus on asking these key questions as you shop:

• Build Quality: What materials are used? Look for violins with solid wood construction — typically a solid spruce top paired with a solid maple back and sides. The neck should also be made from a durable wood like maple, and the fingerboard is best crafted using a dense hardwood such as ebony.
• Comfort & Sizing: Are you sure you have the right size of violin? How does the violin feel when you lift and hold it? Is it comfortable and easy enough to manage?

For hands-on guidance, we invite you to visit one of our 250+ Music & Arts retail stores, where an expert associate will help you find the perfect violin.

What are some good brands for beginner violins?

Brands that make quality violin outfits for beginners include Bellafina, Strobel and Cremona — all of which are available through Music & Arts.

Can I rent a violin at Music & Arts?

Yes! Music & Arts offers educator-approved violins in a variety of sizes for a low recurring fee, supported by the nation's #1 repair network. Plus, shipping is free to your home, school or neighborhood store. Rent today in just minutes.

How hard is it to learn to play the violin?

Learning the violin — as with any musical instrument — calls for steady practice, patience and perseverance. Because producing a tone that is clear and in-tune depends on precise technique and good posture, beginners benefit from starting with equipment that suits their needs. Music & Arts offers a wide range of student violins in multiple sizes, ensuring young players have instruments that fit them well and support their musical development.

How do I clean and maintain my violin?

For tips that will help you keep your violin in great shape, check out our Violin Maintenance Guide.