When to upgrade to a better instrument is a complicated question. Often, when the student begins lessons with his or her first private teacher, it is time to step up. Others choose instruments from this level for a beginning player. One thing is for sure- In the lower price ranges, a little extra investment goes a long way to improve the playability and quality of tone over an entry level product. In other words, pick a price point that is comfortable for you, and consider upgrading in a year or two. Our trade-in policy gives you the flexibility to upgrade the instrument freely, without losing value on your initial investment.

Outfits are not available for all our Intermediate Level instruments. Most of our customers want a broader selection of the case and bow to go with an intermediate level instrument.

In choosing a bow we recommend a budget of 15%-30% compared to the cost of the instrument. For example, if you choose a Violin that is $500, an appropriate bow budget would be $75 to $150. It is appropriate to choose a variety of bows with an instrument to see which one is best suited for the student and the instrument. Then you can return the less suitable ones. Our staff can be of great assistance to suggest which bows will compliment an instrument in our shop.

More instruments will be added to this area of our Instruments department. Eventually, our selection will be massive. At the time being we have chosen to launch this department with the most complete supplier known to us, Samuel Eastman. Soon we will also offer instruments from Germany and other European countries.

Our standard setup on intermediate level instruments includes a n Aubert bridge, your choice of synthetic and similar quality strings (including Thomastik Dominant), and other customizations.

Our DeLuxe setup on intermediate level instruments offers a DeLuxe Aubert bridge, your choice of premium quality strings, and other custom upgrades. If you have no preference for these options, let our shop choose them for you.

Samuel Eastman Giocoso and Giocoso Antique are selected to be a step up from our Concertino Line. The two models are identical in terms of the quality of materials and workmanship. The improvements are in the tuning of the instrument through better thicknesses of its parts. The Antique model has the appearance of being an older instrument. Outfits include a case and basic quality Brazilwood Bow. A better quality bow may be appropriate for this instrument. If you intend to budget more than $125 toward the bow in an outfit, we suggest you order the instrument only here, and shop on our bows page for your better quality choice. You will need to visit our cases department as well to complete an outfit.

Samuel Eastman Conservatory has everything the rapidly advancing player needs. Many have seen these and expected them to sell for a far higher price.