( Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass )
| 1. | Deal with an established and reputable dealer. Buying a good stringed instrument is like making an investment. It is important that the dealer can offer you high quality service, good value for money and assurance in the form of guarantees. |
| 2. | Decide on a budget before choosing your instrument. Stringed instruments by different makers differ in various aspects and quality. Similarly, the price range can vary widely. With a pre-determined budget, you'll find it easier to make an appropriate purchase. |
| 3. | The instrument you choose should be subject to a thorough inspection before purchase. Check the instrument for cracks or structural damage to areas particularly the sound post and the bass bar. The varnish should be evenly coated in an original instument. The state of preservation will determine an instrument's resale value. |
| 4. | Be sure the instrument fits you. Similar sized violins can vary slightly in neck width, string length, or thickness. Such differences can affect the ease of playing. |
| 5. | Good tonal quality can be a personal preference, i.e. "bright" or "dark". However, all instruments should have an even tone throughout. Consider whether you are in need of a solo instrument or an orchestral instrument - different tonal characteristics are required for both. |
| 6. | If your budget permits, you may like to purchase an antique instrument. Antique instruments by famous makers are highly prized for the richness in sound, quality and prestige. However, for new instrument of good quality, you may usually get better values, because the instrument does not have antique value or a maker's reputation to add to its price. |
| 7. | Lastly, it is most important that you feel comfortable playing the instrument. Ultimately, a good instrument is one that feels right for you. |
The observance of the following rules will keep your instrument out of the repair shop, save time, money and add years off trouble-free use.
| 1. | Keep your instrument and bow in the case and in a safe place when they are not in use. |
| 2. | Keep them free of rosin dust and finger prints by wiping carefully with a soft cloth. |
| 3. | Handle the instrument carefully by the neck and the chinrest in order to prevent accidental damage and to avoid needless deterioration of the varnish. |
| 4. | Protect your instrument from extreme heat or cold and from sudden changes in temperature. |
| 5. | Cover the instrument with a soft cloth when placing it in the case, especially if it does not fit snugly. |
| 6. | Make sure the case is closed securely before picking it up by the handle. |
| 7. | Inspect the bridge often to be sure it is in the correct position. It should tilt very slightly toward the tailpiece. ( The bridge is held in place only by the pressure of the strings - it is not glued to the instrument ) |
| 8. | Never release the tension of more then one string at a time, or the bridge and soundpost may fall out or get out of place. |
| 9. | Inspect E tuner often to prevent screw from causing damage to violin top. |
| 10. | Use strings of the best quality. |
| 11. | Loosen the hair each time after using the bow. |
| 12. | Do not touch the bow hair with the fingers. |
| 13. | Use best quality rosin - sparingly. |
| 14. | Any repair work should be done by an experienced repairman. |
