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. 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.

Many of our customers will choose the Viola only, and then consider bow and case separately. In choosing a bow we recommend a budget of 15%-30% compared to the cost of the instrument.

We stock a large selection, but the best way to shop is to contact us by email and let us know a little about which models seem appealing to you in terms of the size, price range, tone, and appearance. We can use your preferences to make a specific recommendation of instrument our outfit which is in stock. We also offer a 10 day in-home trial. So, please do not hesistate to contact us. There are no stupid questions. We love email. Thanks in advance for contacting us.

What is the most important aspect of a step-up instrument? The simple answer is "modulation", or, if you are keen on musical acoustics jargon, "waveform modulation". Intermediate level instruments offer better tone, but more specifically, wider tonal possibilities. A player with some skill needs an instrument that will respond to the subtle techniques being developed, such as vibrato, advancing bow strokes and dynamics. Student violins are like an automatic transmission. No matter what you do, you get a Violin-like sound, but at the cost of variety of tones. Intermediate instruments are like a manual transmission, which produce those tonal varieties for the advancing player on demand.

Segue is our private line of instruments from China. We source these from numerous workshops and are constantly looking for better values to offer you. European Workshops is our private line of European made products.

An Outfit includes a Bow and Case, or you can purchase the instrument only. With the standard setup, a shaped model case with fabric cover and basic quality Brazilwood or Fiberglass bow are included (your choice). With the DeLuxe setup, an oblong case and upgraded bow are included. Shaped model case examples are the Pro Tec Max, Concord Academy Dart, HC Economy Dart, SKB, Bobelock Shaped, or other, similar cases are used in the Standard Outfit. Oblong cases such as Pro Tec ProPac, Bobelock 1005, HC Oblong, and others are used in the DeLuxe outfit.

Johannes Kohr K500 is a popular, value oriented chinese made student instrument. This model is sold in local areas under numerous private label brand names. We make them available for those who have come to know their dependable quality and value.

Violin Model Shown

August Kohr 550. Better flamed maple compared to the 525. Lovely satin texture to the finish. Easy response in all registers due to a little extra adjustments in the graduations. Very tastefully antiqued.

Violin Model Shown

Kohr K415 is the K400 with better wood selection, and slightly improved varnish process. 4/4 Size only. We offer this with only one type of setup, which is the DeLuxe setup.

Violin Model Shown

Core Collection K490. The top of the 400 series. Gorgeous flamed Maple and select spruce. Wide range of tone possibilities for the advancing player who can "draw" tones out of an instrument.

European Workshops-Germany Albert Nebel are our least expensive fully German made instruments. Many other so-called German instruments are on the market for lower prices, but are not completely made in the country.

Violin Model Shown