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: 7/15/2008 Subject: What kind of violin do I need
Question Im a sophomore In the Varsity orchestra i need a new violin with my orchestra
mostly coming first and im in the top 4 violinist that compete for chair-master
and i have a price range of 3000$ what kind of violin do u think i need or if its a
really well reasonable price for the violin then send me the information
Answer $3,000 is plenty of money to spend on a violin for the uses you have outlined. We do not, however, typically shop by name-brand for violins. Rather, I recommend that you go in person to one or two violin shops in your area (make sure they are dealers that work exclusively in string instruments) to try out a variety of violins. Just tell the dealer what price range you are looking in and they will bring out a number of instruments for you to try on site. It is often helpful to have someone else with a good ear to help you, or you can ask someone at the shop to assist in your selection.
