I'm not a violinist but I am a working composer/orchestrator/arranger in NYC and over the years, I've bought 4 or 5 violins for my son. Additionally, I've been fortunate to work with some of the finest musicians in the world.

First, what is your level of musical ability? This would determine whether you have the skills for a high-end instrument or if you need a more forgiving one. If you're more of a beginner, there are a lot more easy choices than if you're the concertmistress for a major orchestra!

Second, where are you located? Are you willing to travel to audition instruments? What outlets do you have available?

Third, what price range are you considering? My good friend and colleague plays violin and viola professionally and he buys and sells instruments he comes across in a wide range of prices. As you know, violins can be had for free to millions. (A famous composer friend of mine sold his father's Stradivarius in the late 1970s for about $400K; it's now worth over $2M!).

Fourth, what genres of music will you be playing and at what type of venues? Those are important considerations because the coloration and projection capabilities of an instrument will determine whether you'll be playing in a concert hall, a chamber music setting or a recording studio. (My violinist friend played 1st violin for Phantom of the Opera on Broadway and since the orchestra was in the basement under the stage-- they were miked-- he didn't want to use his good instrument for fear of damaging the bow against the low ceiling overhead.)

Lastly, where are you looking that you're seeing a flooded market? Since I'm not looking, I'm not sure what you mean.

In any event, good luck and may music fill your soul!

I am not an accomplished classical violinist. Not even formerly trained. I'm a fiddler, Irish/Scottish and Old Time mainly.

Some blues and a little ragtime. I play mostly in jam sessions, (in the Before Times) locally with friends, at occasional gig at events and such.


What I'm seeing are a lot of violins posted at $5. some at $39. occasionally at $100. Some one is posting a violin for $399 Strad Copy pretending to be a German maker with the name of German city pretending to be a person's name.

Those are just a few examples,