Violin/electric vs acoustic

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Expert: Anne Keller - 3/21/2005


Question
Hi! I am at the stage where I am buying my second violin and hopefully selling my old one. I have heard that the best thing about electric violins is that they can play all levels of music without the cost of an acoustic violin costing thoasands.

I just wondered if this is true, I quite like the idea of paying a larger sum of money for an electric violin that I couldn't 'outgrow' as I improve. Also any other things that suggest which I should look at: electric/acoustic, would be muchly appreciated. Thanks.

Answer
Hello,
You can actually get electric and acoustic vioins for about the same price.  A lot of the time, its actually the electric violins that are more expensive.  It all depends on quality and where you look.  For expample, Shar has a few acoustic violins: http://www.sharmusic.com/itemdy00.asp?T1=SAEV4+BLK&Cat=
http://www.sharmusic.com/itemdy00.asp?T1=YAV1+12&Cat=
And electric:
http://www.sharmusic.com/itemdy00.asp?T1=FV4+BLU&Cat=
http://www.sharmusic.com/itemdy00.asp?T1=CV4+WHI&Cat=
http://www.sharmusic.com/itemdy00.asp?T1=SEV4T&Cat=
http://www.sharmusic.com/itemdy00.asp?T1=FEV344&Cat=
It all depends on what you want to play, and the quality of the violin you buy.  There are some electric violins out there that are bad quality, and you wouldn't be able to play forever on them.  It's the same with with acoustic violins.  For the most part, you get what you pay for.  I'd recomend going to your local music store and trying out a mix of acoustic and electric violins.  Whatever feels better for you, get it.  I hope this helps!  If you have any other questions, feel free to reply.

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Anne Keller

Expertise

I can answer questions about either playing solo or in an ensemble. I can answer questions about basics, like tuning, playing position, practice habits, etc. I can also answer questions about shifting, chords/double stops, different bow strokes, scales, music theory, intonation, and preforming. I can also give tips on how to play and preform in a group, from a duet to a symphony orchestra. I can answer questions about teaching violin to adults and to young children. I can also give you tips for trying out different violins/bows to buy. I can answer just about anything!

Experience

I have played violin for 8 years. I have played solo, and also in many ensembles-- duets, quartets, chamber ensembles, orchestras. I have performed in Solo and Ensemble district and state competions. I am in my high school's Symphony Orchestra, and last year I was co-concertmaster for the Philharmonia Orchestra. I was principal 2nd violin for the Michigan Youth Symphony Orchetra for 2004-2005. I play mostly classical music, but last year our quartet played in a recording studio for a band. I have worked at a summer camp for young children (grades 1-5), and have experience teaching adults and children.

Awards and Honors
2001 and 2002 Orchestra Directors Award for my middle school
2001 Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp Scholarship from my middle school
5 time District Solo and Ensemble Superior ratings for Junior High 4 time District Solo and Ensemble Superior ratings for Senior High 4 time State Solo and Ensemble Superior ratings

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