AboutTodd Sullivan Expertise Hello, I am a NYC violinist performing for Broadway shows, symphony orchestras, opera, and sundry theatre/pop tours. I would be happy to answer your questions about anything related to being a performer in the music business. I play both violin and viola professionally, so questions on playing either instrument are welcome. The only thing I am not well informed on is information concerning instruments/bows...those questions are best left to luthiers.
Experience Professional experience includes a variety of on/off Broadway tours and shows, numerous orchestras, tours with Ray Charles and Ann Murray orchestras, leader of the 20-piece Todd Sullivan Orchestra.
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Fine Arts (violin) with honors from Carnegie Mellon University (1999)
Expert: Todd Sullivan Date: 3/5/2008 Subject: Electric Violin
Question I've been playing violin for about a year now, and I was looking into a cheap electric violin / amp, right now I play a 600$ rental so I would expect anything would be better, but would you suggest for me to not get one?
Also, for an electric violin would it be better to get one with a C, and/(or possibly) F string?
Thanks for your time ^^
Answer I always recommend that if you are young it is best to spend time learning to play violin well on an acoustic instrument and adding the electric after you have reached an advanced level. I feel this way because the motor skills you need to master on violin are far more involved and refined than most instruments, and the demands of an acoustic instrument require you to play correctly. Also, if you have not acquired an advanced flexibility and technique in both hands, you will not realize many of the unique attributes that an electric violin has to offer.
It's a good idea to get a 5-string electric (with C) but as you get into 6 strings and beyond it is troublesome because you will lose the ability to play cleanly and quickly on individual strings due to the reduced arch. So you must choose your instrument design based on the music you wish to perform - most players with 6 strings are doing a lot of mash-type rock and percussive effects that utilize multiple-stopping.
