Best Violins for Beginners [2023 Review]

If you made it here then that means you are ready to take on the musical journey with your first violin.

With the wide range of violins for beginners available in the market, it can be hard to know where to start.

To ease the process and set you on the path to making beautiful music, we’ve researched and curated a list of the best beginner violins.

These violins have been selected based on their quality, user feedback, and overall value for the investment, ensuring you find an instrument that is easy to play, has a decent sound, and supports your learning journey.

What is the Best Violin for a Beginner?

What are the Trusted Violin Brands?

Whether you’re a parent looking for your child’s first violin or an adult beginner yourself, our list of the best violins for beginners has got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Product Overview

This beginner violin is a beginner-friendly instrument that combines quality craftsmanship with a budget-friendly price tag.

Price Range

This beginner violin falls in the affordable range of around $200-$250, making it an excellent choice for new musicians who are not yet ready to invest in a more expensive instrument.

Key Features

The Cecilio CVN-300 boasts a solid wood body with an ebony fingerboard, tuning pegs, chin rest, and tailpiece with 4 detachable nickel-plated fine tuners. It comes pre-strung with D’Addario Prelude Strings, known for their warm, robust and clear sound.

The set includes a lightweight hard case, a Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine horsehair, rosin, adjustable shoulder rest, two bridges, and an extra set of violin strings.

Don’t let the price fool you. It is still a quality instrument and might just be the right beginner violin for you. – not to mention it is one of our top choices when it comes to “best bang for your buck”.

Suitability

Given its design features and price point, this acoustic violin is most suitable for beginners or intermediate students who wish to learn on a reliable and good-sounding instrument without breaking the bank.

User Reviews

The CVN-300 receives high marks from users on Amazon for its sound quality and value for money. Many users appreciated the extras that come with the violin, stating that they’re excellent for beginners who may not have all the necessary accessories.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable
• Solid Construction
• Pre-strung with high-quality strings
• Includes many extras.

Cons:

• Some users have reported the need for initial setup or adjustments by a professional to achieve the best sound.

Specifications

• Brand: Cecilio
• Size: Available in multiple sizes
• Material: Hand-carved solid spruce top with solid maple back and sides
• Finish: Antique varnish
• Bow: Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine horsehair
• Case: Lightweight hard case
• Extras: Rosin, adjustable shoulder rest, extra bridge, and an extra set of D’Addario Prelude strings included
• User Feedback: Positive reviews highlighting its great value for beginners and intermediate students
• Best For: Beginners and intermediate students seeking a reliable, well-rounded instrument

Final Verdict

Overall, the Cecilio CVN-300 Solidwood Ebony Fitted Violin stands as a great option when it comes to violins for beginners. Its quality, affordability, and the range of extras make it an excellent value for money and a solid stepping stone as a beginner violinist.

Cecilio is one of the best violin brands for beginners and the CVN-300 is one of the most popular selections for string instruments.

Product Overview

The Eastar EVA-1 1/2 Natural Violin Set is a perfect beginner violin with a focus on quality and affordability.

Price Range

Falling below $100, it’s an excellent value option for the budget-conscious starter or student.

Key Features

This violin features a spruce top with maple sides and back, all hand-carved, which contributes to a rich and warm sound. It includes an alloy tailpiece with four built-in fine tuners, as well as a bow, rosin, shoulder rest, clip-on tuner, and a lightweight hard case.

Suitability

With the fingerboard imprinted with finger guide points, it’s most suitable for beginners who are still learning the correct finger placements.

User Reviews

The Eastar EVA-1 is highly rated on Amazon for its sound quality and durability. Users appreciated the extras included in the kit, making it a convenient all-in-one option for beginners.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Great value for money
• Includes handy extras like a tuner and shoulder rest
• Finger guide points for easy learning

Cons:

• Some users have reported the need for initial tuning by a professional to get the best sound

Specifications

• Brand: Eastar
• Size: 1/2
• Material: Spruce top with maple back and sides
• Fingerboard: ABS
• Strings: Steel strings
• Case: Lightweight hard case
• Extras: Rosin, shoulder rest, additional set of strings, and fingerboard sticker included
• User Feedback: Appreciated for its affordability and included instructional materials
• Best For: Absolute beginners, particularly children, who need an affordable start

Final Verdict

If you’re just starting out and seeking an affordable, all-in-one kit, then the Eastar EVA-1 Natural Violin Set may be the perfect option for you. With its warm sound, durable construction, and user-friendly features, it provides excellent value for money and is considered one of the best violins for beginners.

If you are a violin teacher, this is a good choice as a beginner instrument for students.

Product Overview

The Bunnel Pupil Violin Outfit is a full-size violin, designed with the student musician in mind. This is one of those beginner violins that is not only affordable but offers exceptional quality for its price.

Price Range

This beginner violin is in the mid-range price, suitable for beginners who are willing to invest a bit more for enhanced quality.

Key Features

The Bunnel Pupil Violin Outfit comes complete with a Giuliani Brazilwood bow, a Portland Oblong case, extra Portland string set, and high-quality rosin. It features a solid-carved maple and spruce tone woods, and ebony fittings.

Suitability

This instrument is perfect for beginner and intermediate students who are looking for a step-up violin that offers a rich and warm tone.

User Reviews

Amazon customers rave about the excellent sound quality of this violin, comparing it favorably to higher-priced models. They also appreciate the comprehensive outfit, which includes all the essentials a student needs to start playing.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-quality construction for the price
• Comes with a complete outfit
• Great sound for beginner and intermediate students

Cons:

• Some users reported the need for setup adjustments upon receiving the violin

Specifications

• Brand: Kennedy Violins
• Size: Available in multiple sizes
• Material: Solid carved spruce top with solid carved maple back and sides
• Finish: Oil finish
• Bow: Two Brazilwood bows with genuine horsehair
• Case: Portland Oblong case
• Extras: Kennedy Classic rosin, and Portland string set included
• User Feedback: Praised for its tone and build quality
• Best For: Beginners to intermediate players looking for a high-quality starter violin

Final Verdict

The Bunnel Pupil Violin Outfit is a fantastic choice for students who want a beginner violin without breaking the bank. Its great tone and comprehensive outfit make it an excellent value for the price.

Product Overview

The Cecilio 4/4 CVN-EAV+SR 4/4 Full Size Violin is a hand-carved solid wood violin with an antique varnish finish. This violin is set up and ready to play right out of the box, making it a perfect choice in beginner violins.

Price Range

This violin falls into the affordable category, offering high value for a modest investment.

Key Features

The Cecilio 4/4 CVN-EAV+SR is a full-size violin featuring a hand-carved solid spruce top with maple back and sides, and an antique varnish finish. The kit includes a lightweight hard case, a Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine horsehair, rosin, adjustable shoulder rest, and an extra bridge.

Suitability

This beginner violin is an excellent choice for beginners who are just starting out on their musical journey, as it offers a good balance between quality and affordability.

User Reviews

Many Amazon customers have commended the rich and warm tone this violin produces. They also appreciate the included accessories and the violin’s readiness to play right out of the box.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable
• Rich, warm tone
• Comes with a complete starter kit

Cons:

• Some users reported needing minor adjustments upon receiving the violin

Specifications

• Brand: Cecilio
• Size: Full-size 4/4
• Material: Hand-carved solid spruce top with maple back and sides
• Finish: Antique varnish
• Bow: Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine horsehair
• Case: Lightweight hard case included
• Extras: Rosin, adjustable shoulder rest, and extra bridge included
• User Feedback: Positive reviews for tone and readiness to play out of the box
• Best For: Beginners seeking a balance of quality and affordability.

Final Verdict

The Cecilio 4/4 CVN-EAV+SR is an excellent choice for beginners looking for an affordable yet high-quality new violin. With its antique finish and complete accessory kit, it offers great value for money.

Product Overview

The Ricard Bunnel G1 Violin Outfit is a full-size violin made by the renowned Kennedy Violins. It’s handcrafted with solid spruce and maple, and finished with oil for enhanced sound quality. This violin comes ready to play straight out of the box, making it an exceptional choice for beginners.

Price Range

While the Ricard Bunnel G1 is slightly more expensive than some beginner violins, it offers excellent value for money considering its superior build and tonal quality.

Key Features

The Ricard Bunnel G1 features a hand-carved solid spruce top and maple back and sides, with an oil finish. The kit includes an oblong case, a Brazilwood bow with genuine Mongolian horsehair, rosin, a Portland Gold shoulder rest, an introductory book, and pre-installed D’Addario Prelude strings.

Suitability

This beginner violin is an ideal option for beginners who are serious about learning and are willing to make a slightly higher initial investment for better quality and sound.

User Reviews

Users on Amazon have praised the Ricard Bunnel G1 for its excellent tone quality and the high standard of craftsmanship. They also appreciated the included accessories and the readiness of the violin to play right from the box.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High build quality
• Comes with a complete accessory kit
• Balanced sound

Cons:

• Slightly higher price point may not suit all beginners
• Comes installed with low-quality strings

Specifications

• Brand: Kennedy Violins
• Size: Full-size 4/4
• Material: Hand-carved solid spruce top with maple back and sides
• Finish: Oil finish
• Bow: Brazilwood bow with genuine Mongolian horsehair
• Case: Oblong case included
• Extras: Rosin, Portland Gold shoulder rest, an introductory book, and pre-installed D’Addario Prelude strings
• User Feedback: Excellent reviews for sound quality and build
• Best For: Serious beginners looking for a quality investment

Final Verdict

The Ricard Bunnel G1 Violin Outfit from Kennedy Violins offers superior build quality, excellent tonal properties, and a comprehensive set of extras. Although it falls in a slightly higher price bracket, the violin provides excellent value for money and is a great investment for serious beginners.

Product Overview

The Mendini MV500+92D is a beautifully constructed full-size violin with a hand-carved one-piece maple back, sides, and neck, and a solid spruce top. The violin is a visually appealing instrument, featuring a flamed design and varnish finish. It is ready to play straight from the box, making it a suitable choice for beginner violins.

Price Range

This Mendini violin is priced affordably, providing a high-value option for those seeking quality and craftsmanship on a budget.

Key Features

The Mendini MV500+92D violin boasts a hand-carved one-piece maple back with a solid spruce top. The kit includes a lightweight hard case, two Brazilwood bows with unbleached Mongolian horsehair, rosin, adjustable shoulder rest, an extra bridge, and extra strings.

Suitability

This violin is an excellent choice for beginners and students who want a nice instrument without breaking the bank. Its easy playability and high-quality sound make it suitable for learners at different stages.

User Reviews

Amazon customers are generally satisfied with this instrument. They commend the Mendini MV500+92D for its stunning aesthetics, good sound quality, and comprehensive accessory kit included.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable
• Aesthetically pleasing with flamed design
• Comes with a complete accessory kit

Cons:

• Some users reported needing to replace the default strings for better sound

Specifications

• Brand: Mendini
• Size: Full-size 4/4
• Material: Hand-carved one-piece maple back, sides and neck with a solid spruce top
• Finish: Flamed with varnish finish
• Bow: Two Brazilwood bows with unbleached Mongolian horsehair
• Case: Lightweight hard case included
• Extras: Rosin, adjustable shoulder rest, an extra bridge, and extra strings
• User Feedback: Good reviews for aesthetics and overall value
• Best For: Beginners and students seeking an affordable, high-quality violin

Final Verdict

The Mendini MV500+92D Flamed 1-Piece Back Solid Wood Violin is an affordable, exceptional instrument suitable for beginners and students. Its flamed design and varnish finish add an appealing aesthetic touch. While some users suggested upgrading the default strings, the violin offers good overall value, especially considering the included accessory kit.

Product Overview

The Antonio Giuliani Etude Clearance Violin Outfit is a handcrafted violin with a solid spruce top and a solid maple back, sides, and neck. With its beautiful high-gloss finish and remarkable sound quality, it is an instrument designed for students and intermediate players.

Price Range

The Antonio Giuliani Etude violin is moderately priced. It provides a great value for those seeking a well-crafted instrument that delivers in both aesthetic appeal and sound.

Key Features

The Antonio Giuliani Etude violin features a handcrafted construction, with a solid spruce top and solid maple back, sides, and neck. The outfit comes with a Brazilwood bow with horsehair, a lightweight oblong case, rosin, and a Giuliani Brazilwood bow.

Suitability

This quality violin is perfect for students and intermediate players. It offers an excellent balance between quality and affordability, and its rich, clear sound can aid in the progression of violin skills.

User Reviews

Customers on Amazon praise the Antonio Giuliani Etude violin for its rich and clear sound. They also commend the instrument’s craftsmanship and the quality of the wood used.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent craftsmanship
• Clear, rich sound
• Comes with a full accessory kit

Cons:

• A bit pricier than some beginner models

Specifications

• Brand: Antonio Giuliani
• Size: Full-size 4/4
• Material: Handcrafted solid spruce top, solid maple back, sides, and neck
• Finish: High-gloss finish
• Bow: Brazilwood bow with horsehair
• Case: Lightweight oblong case included
• Extras: Rosin and Giuliani Brazilwood bow
• User Feedback: Positive reviews for sound quality and craftsmanship
• Best For: Students and intermediate players

Final Verdict

The Antonio Giuliani Etude Clearance Violin Outfit is a worthy investment for students and intermediate players. Though it is slightly pricier than some beginner models, the quality of the instrument, its sound, and the included accessories provide excellent value.

Product Overview

This Cremona SV-500 Premier Artist Violin is a full-sized violin that offers a combination of both elegance and superior sound. Hand-crafted from select tonewoods, this violin offers excellent playability suitable for intermediate and advancing students.

If you want to set aside the many cheap violins and settle for a great violin, then this Cremona violin might be the right choice for you.

Price Range

This violin falls into the mid-range category, offering exceptional value for the investment.

Key Features

The Cremona SV-500 is a full-size violin hand-crafted from solid spruce and solid maple. It features a warm brown finish and flamed violin body for added aesthetic appeal. The kit includes a lightweight oblong case, a Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine horsehair, rosin, and an extra bridge.

Suitability

This violin is an excellent choice for intermediate and advancing students who want an awesome instrument that can grow with them as they advance their skills.

User Reviews

Amazon customers have given positive feedback about the sound quality and craftsmanship of the Cremona SV-500, with many appreciating its value for money.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-quality sound
• Beautiful craftsmanship
• Comes with a full accessory kit

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than beginner models

Specifications

• Brand: Cremona
• Size: Full-size 4/4
• Material: Hand-carved solid spruce and maple
• Finish: Warm brown finish and flamed body
• Bow: Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine horsehair
• Case: Lightweight oblong case included
• Extras: Rosin and extra bridge included
• User Feedback: Positive reviews for sound quality and craftsmanship
• Best For: Intermediate and advancing students

Final Verdict

The Cremona SV-500 Premier Artist Violin Outfit is an excellent investment for intermediate and advancing students. The high-quality instrument offers a superior sound and build quality that justifies its slightly higher price point compared to beginner models. With the included accessories, this violin offers great value for money.

Cremona violins are a great choice for individuals looking for a great violin that will stay with them through to intermediate levels of playing.

Product Overview

The Bunnel Pupil Violin Outfit from Kennedy Violins is a full-sized instrument tailored towards beginners and intermediate players. It features quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, providing superior sound and ease of play.

Price Range

This violin is set at a mid-range price point, offering substantial quality for an affordable cost.

Key Features

The Kennedy Violins Bunnel Pupil Violin has a 4/4 violin size and features a hand-carved spruce top with maple back and sides, and a beautiful satin finish. Included with the violin is a lightweight oblong case, a Brazilwood bow with genuine horsehair, rosin, and an extra set of strings.

Suitability

This violin is an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate players who are looking for a quality instrument that can accommodate their growth as a musician.

User Reviews

Amazon customers have given high praise for the Kennedy Violins Bunnel Pupil Violin’s rich tone, durability, and the quality of the included accessories.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality
• Sturdy construction
• Comprehensive accessory kit

Cons:

• Some users noted the bow quality could be improved

Specifications

• Brand: Kennedy Violins
• Size: Full-size 4/4
• Material: Hand-carved solid spruce top with maple back and sides
• Finish: Beautiful satin finish
• Bow: Brazilwood bow with genuine horsehair
• Case: Lightweight oblong case included
• Extras: Rosin and an extra set of strings included
• User Feedback: Positive reviews for sound and durability
• Best For: Beginners and intermediate players

Final Verdict

The Kennedy Violins Bunnel Pupil Violin Outfit is a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate players. It offers excellent sound and durability, which are complemented by the comprehensive accessory kit. While there were some minor issues reported with the bow, the overall package offers high value for the price point.

Product Overview

The Cecilio CVN-600 4/4 Full Size Violin is an intermediate-level instrument known for its superior sound and high-quality materials. Hand-carved from solid flamed maple wood and featuring a tight-grained spruce top, this violin brings an aesthetic appeal to its impressive sound.

Price Range

This violin is priced in the mid to high range, reflecting the quality of the materials and the craftmanship involved in its construction.

Key Features

The Cecilio CVN-600 features an inlaid purfling and a semi-hand rubbed oil finish, contributing to the aesthetic quality of the violin. The one-piece back design and D’Addario Prelude Strings deliver a superior sound that intermediate players will appreciate. The kit includes a lightweight deluxe hard case, two Brazilwood bows with unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair, rosin, and an adjustable shoulder rest.

Suitability

This beautiful violin is well-suited for intermediate players, offering quality sound and a higher level of craftsmanship to cater to their improving skills and help them enjoy playing classical music.

User Reviews

Amazon customers have given high marks for the Cecilio CVN-600’s sound quality and value for money. Users also appreciate the quality of the violin’s build and the included accessories.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Superior sound
• Great materials and construction
• Comprehensive accessory kit

Cons:

• Some users have noted the need for professional setup for optimal performance

Specifications

• Brand: Cecilio
• Size: Full-size 4/4
• Material: Hand-carved solid flamed maple wood and tight-grained spruce top
• Finish: Semi-hand rubbed oil finish
• Bow: Two Brazilwood bows with unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair
• Case: Lightweight deluxe hard case included
• Extras: Rosin, adjustable shoulder rest, and D’Addario Prelude Strings included
• User Feedback: Positive reviews for sound quality and value for money
• Best For: Intermediate players

Final Verdict

The Cecilio CVN-600 is an excellent choice for intermediate players looking for a quality instrument that caters to their increasing skill levels. With its high-quality materials, superior sound, and comprehensive accessory kit, it offers great value for its price. Despite some users recommending professional setup for optimal performance, the overall quality of this violin remains impressive.

Product Overview

The D Z Strad Violin LC101 is a handcrafted instrument designed for intermediate-level players. It delivers rich tones and features top-tier construction materials that enhance its sound quality and longevity.

Price Range

This violin falls into a more expensive category, reflecting the high-quality materials used in its construction and its superior tonal quality.

Key Features

The D Z Strad Violin LC101 features a top made from selected seasoned spruce and a back of flamed maple, hand-carved for tonal quality. The outfit includes a case, a Brazilwood bow with genuine horsehair, rosin, and a shoulder rest.

Suitability

The D Z Strad Violin LC101 is ideal for intermediate-level players. It offers excellent tonal qualities and a beautiful design, making it a worthwhile investment for individuals aiming to enhance their playing experience.

User Reviews

Amazon customers praise the excellent sound quality and craftsmanship of this violin. The violin’s sound quality and design have particularly been commended by intermediate-level players.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-quality handcrafted design
• Excellent sound quality
• Complete accessory kit

Cons:

• Higher price range might be out of budget for some players

Specifications

• Brand: D Z Strad
• Size: Full-size 4/4
• Material: Selected seasoned spruce top and flamed maple back
• Bow: Brazilwood bow with genuine horsehair
• Case: Case included
• Extras: Rosin and shoulder rest included
• User Feedback: Positive reviews for sound quality and craftsmanship
• Best For: Intermediate players

Final Verdict

The D Z Strad Violin LC101 is a remarkable instrument designed for intermediate-level players. With high-quality construction materials and excellent sound, it provides a superior playing experience. Although the price may be a little steep for some, the value it offers with its sound quality and accessories makes it a worthy investment for dedicated players.

Things to Avoid when Buying a Beginner Violin

When choosing a violin for a beginner, it’s essential to understand what to look for and what to avoid. Here are a few points that will guide you in avoiding common pitfalls.

Avoid Violin Shaped Objects (VSOs)

In your search for a new violin, you may come across extremely cheap violins that look like violins but are poor in quality. These are known as Violin Shaped Objects (VSOs). They’re typically made with inferior materials, lack proper setup, and can be incredibly challenging to play.

While a VSO’s low price tag might seem attractive, these instruments often end up costing more in the long run because they frequently need repairs and adjustments. More importantly, they can lead to frustration and discourage a beginner from continuing their music lessons due to poor sound and playability.

VSOs are often found in the classroom provided by violin teachers so each student can afford their own violin and violin lessons. This is frowned upon in the violin world as it can make students want to quit easily. VSOs are NOT acceptable as student violins and they are NOT acceptable for music lessons.

Search for the best violin brands that do not make VSOs and can provide an instrument that is at the very least – “playable”.

Steer Clear of Unbranded Instruments

Instruments without recognizable factory violin brands or manufacturer’s marks can be a risky purchase. Violin brands with a good reputation stand by their products and offer customer support if things go wrong.

Don’t Overlook the Importance of Setup

A proper setup — which includes the adjustment of the bridge, tuning pegs, sound post, and strings — is crucial for the playability and sound quality of the violin. Avoid violins that have not been professionally set up. Most of the best violin brands will have most beginner violins ready and setup out of the box.

Beware of ‘Too Good to be True’ Deals

If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. A good quality violin, even at the beginner level, requires a certain cost in materials and craftsmanship. Extremely cheap deals often equate to subpar quality.

Keeping these points in mind will help you avoid common mistakes and ensure that you’re investing in a nice sounding instrument that will facilitate and encourage the learning process.

Our Beginner Violin Top Picks

As we’ve seen, there are many great beginner violins available, each with its own unique features. After considering all options, we’ve determined our top picks in three categories: Overall Best Violin on a Budget, Best Beginner Violin to Last through Intermediate Playing, and Best Overall Violin for Beginners.

Overall Best Violin on a Budget

The Mendini MV500 is our top pick for this category. This violin offers a high-quality sound and is constructed with excellent materials. Despite its affordable price, it does not compromise on sound quality and build. The Mendini MV500 also comes with a comprehensive set of extras, making it an unbeatable value for money choice for beginner violinists on a budget.

Best Beginner Violin to Last through Intermediate Playing

The Cecilio CVN-600 stands out in this category. With its hand-carved one-piece maple back, quality woods, and D’Addario Prelude Strings, this violin not only delivers excellent sound but is also built to last. This instrument is likely to carry the student into their intermediate stages without needing an upgrade, making it an excellent long-term investment.

Best Overall Violin for Beginners

The Ricard Bunnel G1 Violin Outfit takes the crown in this category. Its high-quality build and superior sound, along with the comprehensive starter kit, provide everything a beginner needs to hit the violin scene running. Additionally, the lifetime warranty and free set-up by Kennedy Violins luthiers adds to the trust and quality of this violin. The Ricard Bunnel G1 is an instrument that a beginner can grow with, making it our top pick for the best overall violin for beginners.

Choosing the right violin is a personal journey and depends on your individual needs and goals. We hope this guide has been helpful in narrowing down your options and getting you one step closer to finding the perfect violin to start your musical journey. Happy playing!