Violins

As a family-run independent music retailer helping musicians since 1987, Fair Deal Music makes it easier to choose your next violin with confidence. Browse the latest available instruments below and find the right fit for your playing level, musical goals and budget.

Find the Right Violin for Your Musical Journey

The violin is one of the world’s most expressive and versatile instruments, equally at home in classical music, folk, jazz, contemporary performance, orchestras, ensembles and solo playing. Choosing the right violin can make a significant difference to comfort, confidence, technique and enjoyment, particularly for beginners and younger players.

Our violin collection is designed to help musicians at every stage find a suitable instrument, from accessible student violins for first lessons to more responsive models for developing and experienced players. Whether you are buying for yourself, a child, a school, a teacher or a performing musician, you can explore practical options for learning, practising, recording and live performance.

Which Type of Violin Is Right for You?

Beginner and Student Violins

Beginner violins are designed to provide a comfortable and dependable introduction to the instrument. They are ideal for new players beginning lessons, school students and anyone looking for an affordable way to start learning.

Many student violin outfits are supplied with useful essentials such as a bow and protective case, although included accessories can vary between models. Always check the individual product description to confirm exactly what is supplied.

Intermediate Violins

Intermediate violins are well suited to progressing musicians who need improved tone, responsiveness and playing comfort. They can be a strong choice for players moving beyond their first instrument, taking graded examinations, joining ensembles or developing more advanced techniques.

Acoustic Violins

Traditional acoustic violins produce their sound naturally through the instrument’s body. They are the most common choice for lessons, orchestral playing, classical music, folk styles, acoustic ensembles and everyday practice.

Electric Violins

Electric violins are ideal for amplified performance, recording, silent practice with compatible headphones or equipment, and musicians exploring contemporary styles. They can be particularly useful for live bands, stage performers and players who want access to effects and amplification.

Choosing the Correct Violin Size

Selecting the correct violin size is essential for comfortable playing and healthy technique. A violin that is too large can make fingering, bow control and posture more difficult, while the correct size helps the player develop confidence and control.

Common violin sizes include:

• 4/4 full size: Typically suitable for most adults and older teenagers
• 3/4 size: Often suitable for older children and smaller players
• 1/2 size: Commonly chosen for developing younger players
• 1/4, 1/8 and smaller sizes: Designed for younger children beginning their musical journey

Age can provide a useful starting point, but arm length, hand size and overall comfort are more reliable guides. A teacher or experienced member of a music shop team can help confirm the most suitable size before purchase.

What Should I Look for When Buying a Violin?

When comparing violins, consider the player’s experience, physical size, musical ambitions and how often the instrument will be used. The lowest-priced option is not always the best long-term choice if the player is already progressing quickly or requires an instrument with greater tonal response.

• Playing level: Choose an instrument appropriate for a beginner, developing or experienced player
• Correct size: Make sure the violin is comfortable to hold and play
• Sound and response: Progressing players may benefit from a more expressive and responsive instrument
• Included accessories: Check whether the violin includes a bow, case, rosin or other essentials
• Intended use: Consider lessons, home practice, orchestra, live performance or recording
• Budget: Balance affordability with build quality, comfort and future progression

Violins for Lessons, Practice and Performance

A suitable violin should support the way you intend to play. Beginners may prioritise ease of use, reliable tuning and a complete outfit, while advancing musicians may look for improved projection, tonal depth and dynamic response.

Violinists performing with amplified bands or modern ensembles may prefer an electric instrument, while orchestral and traditional players will usually favour an acoustic violin. Teachers and schools may also value durable, practical instruments that can support regular lessons and repeated use.

Quality, Preparation and Peace of Mind

At Fair Deal Music, we understand how important it is for a violin to feel comfortable, dependable and ready for its intended player. Product condition, included accessories and individual specifications are clearly described on each listing so you can make an informed decision before ordering.

Where an instrument is pre-owned, used or offered as an individual item, its condition and relevant details will be stated within the product description. Used and one-off instruments can sell quickly, so availability may change as individual violins are purchased.

Buy, Sell or Trade Your Violin

Looking to upgrade your current instrument? Fair Deal Music can help musicians explore opportunities to sell, trade in, part exchange or trade up selected musical instruments.

A part exchange may help reduce the cost of moving to a higher-quality violin or another instrument better suited to your current playing level. Valuations depend on the instrument’s make, model, age, condition and current market demand.

Contact the Fair Deal Music team with clear photographs and accurate details of your instrument to discuss the available options.

Finance Options

Flexible finance options may be available on eligible purchases, helping you spread the cost of a suitable violin rather than compromising on the instrument that best supports your development. Finance is subject to eligibility, status and applicable terms and conditions.

Check the individual product page for current payment options and further information.

Delivery and Collection

Order your violin online for delivery, or check the available collection options when completing your purchase. Delivery availability, charges and estimated timescales can vary depending on the product, destination and service selected.

Please review the information shown on the individual product page and during checkout for the latest details relating to your order.

Why Thousands of Musicians Choose Fair Deal Music

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you are choosing one of the UK’s most established independent family-run music retailers, proudly helping musicians since 1987.

• Decades of experience supporting beginners, students and professional musicians
• A wide selection of musical instruments and equipment
• Friendly, knowledgeable advice from a specialist music retailer
• New, used and one-off instruments available across selected categories
• Part exchange, trade-in and upgrade opportunities on eligible instruments
• A trusted Birmingham music business serving customers throughout the UK

Frequently Asked Questions About Violins

What violin should a beginner buy?

A beginner should choose a violin that is the correct physical size, comfortable to play and suitable for regular lessons and practice. A student violin outfit can be a practical starting point because it may include a bow and case, but always check the individual listing for the exact contents.

How do I know which violin size I need?

The correct size depends mainly on the player’s arm length, hand size and comfort rather than age alone. Most adults use a full-size 4/4 violin, while younger players often require fractional sizes. A violin teacher or experienced music retailer can help confirm the best fit.

Is a full-size violin suitable for every adult?

A 4/4 violin is suitable for most adults, but comfort and reach should still be considered. Smaller adults or players with limited reach may find a fractional-size violin more comfortable.

What is the difference between a beginner and intermediate violin?

Beginner violins focus on affordability, durability and ease of use. Intermediate violins generally offer improved materials, tonal character, projection and responsiveness, making them better suited to developing players who require more from their instrument.

Should I choose an acoustic or electric violin?

An acoustic violin is usually the best choice for traditional lessons, classical music, orchestras and natural unamplified sound. An electric violin is better suited to amplified performance, recording, contemporary styles and quieter practice with compatible equipment.

Do violins come with a bow and case?

Some violins are sold as complete outfits with a bow, case and other accessories, while others are supplied as the instrument only. Check the “What’s Included” or specification information on the individual product page before ordering.

Can I part exchange my current violin?

Fair Deal Music may be able to consider selected instruments for part exchange or trade-in. The value will depend on the make, model, age, condition and current demand. Contact the team with photographs and full details for an initial assessment.

Can I spread the cost of a violin?

Finance options may be available on eligible products, subject to status and applicable terms. Current payment options will be displayed on the relevant product page or during checkout.

Are used violins a good option?

A used violin can offer excellent value, particularly for progressing players looking to access a higher-quality instrument within their budget. Condition, setup and suitability are important, so review the product description carefully and ask for advice where needed.

What else do I need to start playing the violin?

Depending on what is included with the instrument, you may also need a bow, case, rosin, shoulder rest, spare strings, music stand and tuner. A teacher can advise which accessories are most suitable for the player’s needs.

Explore Our Current Violin Collection

Browse the latest violins available from Fair Deal Music and find an instrument that suits your size, experience, musical style and budget. From first violins for new students to acoustic and electric options for developing performers, our collection can help you take the next step with confidence.