what kind violin should I buy for a 6th grader middle school music class ?

[Anonymous]

Agree with other PPs about not buying cheap. You can't guess what size violin to use based on shirt size or some vague sense of height vs. adults. Go to Potter's or one of the other stores listed. They rent, they size, they also offer insurance if you're nervous about breakage. Don't waste your money on buying a crummy violin or one that isn't sized right.

The only other thing I'd also recommend is that no matter how curious you/your child is, don't mess with it until the music teacher instructs your child to get it set up properly, tension the bow correctly, apply rosin etc. If you don't get it right, it won't sound like much and you can snap bow fibers fairly easily.

[Anonymous]

I posted at 10:15. Based on my own years of playing the violin, I will reiterate my advice that you rent first. Get insurance if you're concerned, but rent a good-quality instrument. If you buy a cheap and poor-quality instrument, it is very likely that your child will become discouraged and frustrated.

I will also reiterate that your child will probably need a 3/4 size now, not a full size. I recommend that you go to a good shop, put yourself in the hands of the staff, and find a good-quality rental.

And finally, if your child really wants to learn to play now, find a good private teacher and start lessons now. YouTube is a nice source of inspiration but you need a teacher to help develop good habits from the outset.

[Anonymous]

OP here again,

WOW, thank you all for educating me on this matter. I got back from the music teacher and got the same recommendation with rental or purchasing with "Lashof violins or Potters Violin Shop"

Thanks again and I love you all !