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: 9/16/2007 Subject: What should I buy for my daughter?
Question My daughter is 10 years old and has been playing violin for 2 years and enjoys it very much.She now wants us to purchase her a 3/4 violin as she wants her own and not the "one from school" because she says it doesn't sound as nice as the ones that the other kids own,the problem is I'm a NYC Detective and don't have the slightest clue what to look for.I found two that were in our price range(1 was a Karl Killing 3/4,the other was a Gliga genial 3/4)they're probably all we can afford, just wondering if you had any suggestions.
Thank you,Eric and Elaina.
Answer Hello Eric,
It is impossible to gauge the relative quality of violins unless I play them or hear them played. When we buy an instrument, we try out a lot of instruments in the price range we can afford and choose the one that sounds best and feels most comfortable to us. I agree with your daughter that she can find something much better than the violins that are loaned by the school.
I recommend finding someone that plays violin to go with you when trying out instruments. If you don't know anyone I would be happy to meet you at the store since you are in the NYC area and help you pick a winner - feel free to email me at BigBandProductions@verizon.net
Your daughter will certainly feel more inspired and work harder if she has an instrument that responds better, so it is a good investment. Plus, music stores will usually let you trade it back in toward a new one at the price you paid if it is kept in good care.
