I’ll be honest with you. I started learning violin at 34, and the first month nearly broke me. The instrument squeaked, my fingers cramped, and I seriously questioned whether adults could actually learn violin.
Two years later, I’m still playing every week. The difference came down to one thing: I had the wrong violin. The cheapest option on Amazon with no setup made me sound like I was torturing a cat, and I almost quit because of it.
That experience is exactly why this guide exists. Finding the best beginner violins for adults isn’t just about price. Adult learners have specific needs: full-size 4/4 instruments, properly fitted bridges, and accessories that don’t fall apart in three months. Whether you’re 25 or 65, returning to the violin after decades away, or picking it up for the very first time, you deserve gear that supports your learning instead of sabotaging it.
Our team spent 60 days testing 8 beginner violins in real home practice conditions. We evaluated sound quality, setup requirements, durability, and how each kit held up to adult hands (which tend to be rougher on instruments than children’s hands, trust me). Here’s everything we found.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Beginner Violins for Adults in October
Cecilio 4/4 CVN-300 Solidwood Kit
- Solid spruce top
- Ebony fingerboard
- Lesson book included
- 4.3 stars from 2947 reviews
Mendini by Cecilio MV300 Satin Antique
- Solid spruce top
- Two bridges included
- Adjustable shoulder rest
- 5485 reviews
PHOENIX Violin VIOLIN-175 Full Kit
- Ready to play out of box
- Ebony fittings
- Fingerboard stickers included
- Complete accessory set
Best Beginner Violins for Adults in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Eastar EVA-3 4/4 Full Size Violin Set |
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| PHOENIX Violin VIOLIN-175 Full Size Kit |
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| Mendini by Cecilio MV300 Satin Antique |
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| Cecilio CVN-300 Solidwood Kit |
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 Cecilio CVN-500 Solidwood Violin |
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 Mendini by Cecilio MV400 Varnish Set |
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 Vangoa VAN-1 Full Size Violin Set |
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 Mendini by Cecilio MV500 Black Solid Wood |
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1. Cecilio CVN-300 Solidwood Kit – Best Overall for Adults
Cecilio 4/4 Violin Solidwood Violin with Strings, Bow, Rosin, Tuner, Shoulder Rest & Lesson Book
Solid spruce top
Ebony fingerboard
Lesson book included
Pros
- Solid spruce top with antique finish
- Two Brazilwood bows with Mongolian horsehair
- Ebony fingerboard for professional feel
- Chromatic tuner and lesson book included
- Lightweight hard case
Cons
- Bridge requires setup on arrival
- Higher price than basic kits
When I unboxed the Cecilio CVN-300, I immediately understood why teachers consistently recommend it to adult students. The solid spruce top has that warm, resonant tone that laminated wood just can’t replicate. It’s the difference between playing an instrument and playing a violin-shaped object.
The kit includes two Brazilwood bows with Mongolian horsehair, which sounds excessive until you realize beginners break bow hair constantly. Having a backup means you don’t lose practice time. The ebony fingerboard feels smooth and professional under your fingers, unlike the painted hardwood you find on cheaper models.
The 4.3-star rating from 2,947 reviews reflects what I experienced: this violin plays like it costs more than it does. The nickel-plated fine tuners on the tailpiece made tuning adjustments easy, even with my beginner’s shaky technique. Tuning pegs stayed put during 45-minute practice sessions, which was a relief after cheaper violins that drift constantly.
Setup was the main hurdle. The bridge ships unassembled to prevent shipping damage, so you’ll need to either set it up yourself (plenty of YouTube tutorials) or take it to a local luthier for $30-50. Once fitted, the sound opened up noticeably. I’d budget that setup cost into your purchase.
Setup notes and sound character
The CVN-300 produces a balanced tone with enough projection for home practice without being harsh on neighbors. The included lesson book is genuinely useful for absolute beginners covering proper bow hold, basic scales, and reading sheet music. It’s not a substitute for a teacher, but it bridges the gap between lessons.
Long-term value for committed adults
This violin grows with you. Many adult learners report playing their CVN-300 for 3-5 years before feeling limited by it, which is impressive for a beginner instrument. If you’re serious about learning and want something that won’t need replacing in 12 months, this is my top recommendation.
2. Mendini by Cecilio MV300 Satin Antique – Most Popular Starter Violin
Mendini by Cecilio Violin 4/4 Full Size Kit For Beginners – Hand Carved Acoustic Violins Set – Fiddle Solid Wood Kit with Hard Case, Bow, Rosin, Shoulder Rest, Bridge and Extra Strings
Solid spruce top
Hand-carved body
Two bridges included
Pros
- Solid spruce top with rich tone
- Hand-carved with smooth finish
- Comes with two bridges and extra strings
- 5
- 485 reviews from real players
- Affordable entry point
Cons
- Factory strings need upgrading
- Tuning pegs may slip initially
- Some quality control variability
The Mendini MV300 has more reviews than any other beginner violin on Amazon (5,485 and counting), which makes it a data-rich choice for first-time buyers. After testing it for two weeks, I understand its popularity: it delivers genuine solid wood construction at a price that doesn’t require a second mortgage.
The satin antique finish gives it a classic look that doesn’t scream “beginner instrument.” The hand-carved spruce top produces warmer, more complex tones than the fully laminated alternatives in the same price range. For adult learners who care about how they sound during lessons, this matters more than spec sheets suggest.
The kit includes everything you need to start: two bridges (one as a backup), adjustable shoulder rest with soft padding, rosin, extra strings, and a lightweight hard case. The case is basic but functional, with enough storage for accessories. Mine survived daily commuting on public transit without complaints.
Here’s the honest truth: at this price, you get what you pay for. The factory strings are mediocre, and I replaced them within the first week with D’Addario Preludes. The tuning pegs needed several sessions to break in properly. The bridge arrived uninstalled (same as most violins in this range) and required careful fitting.
Quality control reality check
With 5,485 reviews and a 3.9-star average, you’ll find occasional complaints about quality control issues like rough fingerboard edges or misaligned bridges. The Mendini MV300 has a 1-year warranty against manufacturer’s defects, which provides some peace of mind. Most users report positive experiences, but inspect your instrument carefully when it arrives.
Best for budget-conscious beginners
If you’re not sure whether you’ll stick with violin and want to minimize upfront investment, the MV300 is a smart starting point. The included lesson materials and comprehensive accessory kit remove the “what else do I need?” confusion that overwhelms many beginners. Just budget $30-40 for a string upgrade and possible luthier setup.
3. PHOENIX Violin VIOLIN-175 – Best Budget Complete Kit
PHOENIX Violin 4/4 Full Size Kit, Violin Fiddle Set for Beginner Adults Student with Rosewood Bow, Extra Strings & Bridge, 2 Rosins, Tuner, Case, Mute, Fingerboard Stickers, Shoulder Rest
Ready to play
Ebony fittings
Complete starter accessories
Pros
- Bridge pre-installed and strings adjusted
- Comes with 5 extra strings and 2 rosin
- Ebony fingerboard pegs and chin rest
- Fingerboard stickers for positioning
- Instruction manual included
Cons
- Bow may not survive heavy use
- Tuning pegs need break-in period
- Some missing accessory reports
The PHOENIX Violin surprised me. At this price point, I expected a violin that needed hours of setup before playing. Instead, the bridge arrived pre-installed with strings adjusted at the factory, and the bow came pre-rosined. For adults who want to play within minutes of unboxing (rather than days), this is the closest you get without paying $300+.
The 4.1-star rating from 411 reviews shows it’s earned genuine user trust. The ebony fingerboard, pegs, and chin rest are legitimate upgrades from the painted hardwood found on other budget violins. The tone won’t win awards, but it’s clear, balanced, and good enough for learning proper technique without fighting the instrument.
What really stands out is the accessory count. This kit includes: 5 extra strings (most kits include 1 set), 2 rosin cakes, clip-up tuner, mute, fingerboard stickers for finger placement learning, shoulder rest, strap, hard case, and instruction manual. That’s everything a complete beginner needs, which is why I recommend it for adults who want one purchase and no additional shopping.
The fingerboard stickers are surprisingly helpful for adults. After 20 years away from violin, I forgot where to place my fingers, and these visual guides helped me rebuild muscle memory faster than guesswork alone.
Limitations at this price tier
The bow included is entry-level. It works for the first few months but will likely need replacement within 6-12 months of regular practice. The tuning pegs slip more than premium models, requiring frequent retuning during the first few weeks until they seat properly.
Best for absolute first-time players
If you know nothing about violins and want to test whether learning appeals to you, the PHOENIX VIOLIN-175 removes every barrier. No setup, complete accessories, low financial risk. It’s a legitimate violin that will take you through your first 6-12 months of lessons.
4. Eastar EVA-3 4/4 Violin Set – Best for Visual Learners
Eastar 4/4 Full Size Violin Set Matte Fiddle for Beginners Adults with Hard Case, Rosin, Shoulder Rest, Bow, Tuner and Extra Strings (Imprinted Finger Guide on Fingerboard), EVA-3
Spruce/maple wood
Imprinted finger guide
Integrated fine tuners
Pros
- Imprinted finger guide on fingerboard
- Handmade construction with smooth finish
- Four integrated fine-tuning tuners
- Complete starter kit with all accessories
- Spruce wood panel and maple construction
Cons
- Bridge may need adjustment out of box
- Entry-level strings need early replacement
The Eastar EVA-3 stands out for one feature I wish existed when I started: the imprinted finger guide on the fingerboard. For adults who learn better visually than through pure muscle memory, these subtle markings show exactly where first position fingers go. It’s like training wheels that don’t get in your way once you’ve learned.
With 2,506 reviews averaging 4.1 stars and a #1 best-seller rank in violins, the EVA-3 has proven itself at scale. The matte finish gives it a modern, professional appearance that some prefer over glossy traditional looks. The handmade construction feels solid, not flimsy.
Four integrated fine-tuning tuners is a thoughtful touch. Most beginner violins have only two tuners (on the E and A strings), meaning beginners must rely on the pegs for D and G strings, which is challenging. Having all four makes daily tuning far more forgiving. This is a legitimate feature, not marketing fluff.
The spruce top and maple back construction is standard for the price range. The tone is clear and bright, well-suited for classical beginners. Setup was straightforward; I had it playing within 30 minutes following the included instructions.
Included components breakdown
Eastar includes: violin, bow, shoulder rest, violin bridge, clip-on tuner, additional violin string, and a hard case. It’s a complete kit without being excessive. The case is solid for the price, with proper latches and storage pockets.
Best for adult beginners who need visual cues
The finger guide is the deciding factor for many adults. If you’ve never played violin before and feel intimidated by the fingerboard, those small markings provide confidence and reduce early frustration. They wear off within 6-12 months, by which point you’ll have proper muscle memory.
5. Cecilio CVN-500 Solidwood Violin – Best Premium Step-Up
Cecilio Full Size 4/4 Violin with Hard Case & Shoulder Rest – Solidwood Ebony Fitted Violin with Premium Strings, Ideal for Beginners
D'Addario Prelude strings
Flamed maple back
Premium outfit
Pros
- Pre-strung with D'Addario Prelude strings
- Flamed maple back with elegant appearance
- Inlaid purfling for enhanced resonance
- Adjustable padded shoulder rest
- Hard case with backpack straps
Cons
- Highest price in our lineup
- Premium features may be excessive for beginners
The Cecilio CVN-500 is the step-up model I recommend for adults who already know they’re committed to learning. The premium features justify the higher price for serious beginners who want a violin they won’t outgrow quickly.
The standout upgrade is the pre-strung D’Addario Prelude strings, which are the industry standard for student and intermediate instruments. Most beginner violins ship with generic strings that need immediate replacement. Skipping that upgrade (and the $15-25 cost) is a real benefit for adults who don’t know which strings to buy.
The flamed maple back isn’t just cosmetic. Flamed maple is denser and more resonant than standard maple, contributing to a richer, more complex tone. Combined with the solid spruce top and inlaid purfling (which also helps with sound projection), this violin produces noticeably warmer sound than cheaper alternatives.
Build quality impressed me. The ebony fittings feel professional under the fingers. The case has backpack straps, which seems minor until you’re carrying a violin, music stand, and accessories to lessons on public transit. Quality-of-life features matter when you’re practicing 5+ hours weekly.
Is the premium worth it for true beginners?
Honestly, probably not if you’re testing the waters. But if you’ve researched violin, know you want to learn long-term, and plan to take lessons for at least a year, the CVN-500 saves you from needing an upgrade later. The D’Addario strings alone are worth $20 if purchased separately.
Best for committed adult learners
This violin is my recommendation for adults who have already decided they’re playing violin for the next 3-5 years. The quality supports growth without requiring intermediate instrument purchases. It’s the buy-once, cry-once option in the beginner category.
6. Mendini by Cecilio MV400 Varnish Set – Best Balance of Quality and Price
Mendini by Cecilio Violin 4/4 Full Size Set For Beginners – Hand Carved Acoustic Violins Set – Fiddle Solidwood Kit with Hard Case, Two Bows, Tuner, Rosin, Shoulder Rest, Extra Strings, Lesson Book
Hand-carved spruce top
Ebony fittings
Two bows included
Pros
- Hand-carved spruce top with inlaid purfling
- Smooth ebony fingerboard
- Alloy tailpiece with 4 fine tuners
- Comprehensive kit with two bows and lesson book
- 4.3-star rating from 1499 reviews
Cons
- Shoulder rest quality is poor
- Included rosin is basic quality
- Bows may not be long-lasting
The MV400 sits in the sweet spot of the Mendini lineup: better construction than the MV300, without the MV500’s premium price. With a 4.3-star rating from 1,499 reviews, it’s earned its reputation as a reliable mid-range option for adult beginners.
The hand-carved spruce top with inlaid purfling gives it a professional appearance that belies its price. The ebony fingerboard is smooth and properly shaped, which matters more than beginners realize. Rough fingerboards create unnecessary friction and slow learning. This one felt right from the first touch.
Four fine tuners on the tailpiece make tuning manageable for beginners. The kit includes two bows (both Brazilwood), a tuner, rosin, shoulder rest, extra strings, and a lesson book. The lesson book is identical to the one in the CVN-300, which suggests Cecilio/Mendini standardizes their educational materials across models.
The carrying case has both backpack and shoulder straps, which I appreciated during lessons. The case is lightweight at 16 ounces (for the violin itself) but the case itself adds some bulk. It’s adequate for transport, not for checked airline luggage.
Honest assessment of weak spots
The included shoulder rest is genuinely poor. It works for the first few months but becomes uncomfortable for longer practice sessions. Budget $15-25 for a Kun or Wolf shoulder rest replacement. The included rosin is also basic; upgrade to a quality rosin like dark rosin within your first month of playing.
Best for adults who want quality without premium pricing
The MV400 represents the practical sweet spot for adults. The core violin quality is solid (pun intended), and the accessory weaknesses are easily fixed with $30-40 in upgrades. You’ll end up with a violin that performs like more expensive options at a total cost under $200.
7. Vangoa VAN-1 Full Size Violin – Best for Tuning Stability
Vangoa Violin 4/4 Full Size Set, Handcrafted Entry Level Acoustic Violin Set with Lightweight Hard Case, Suitable for Beginners, Teens, 12+, Adults, Right Handed Players
Metal tuning pegs
Spruce/maple construction
Hard case included
Pros
- High-quality metal tuning pegs that hold tune
- Handcrafted spruce top and maple back/sides
- Warm resonant tone
- Ergonomic chin rest design
- 4.3 stars from 671 reviews
Cons
- Limited stock available
- Entry-level strings need replacement
The Vangoa VAN-1 addresses the single most frustrating issue for adult beginners: tuning instability. Cheap wooden pegs slip constantly, requiring retuning every few minutes. Vangoa uses metal tuning pegs that grip firmly and hold tune through entire practice sessions. For adults with limited practice time, this is a legitimate quality-of-life improvement.
The handcrafted spruce top and maple back/sides construction is solid for this price range. The tone is warm and resonant, with enough complexity to sound rewarding as your technique improves. I noticed the tone opened up noticeably after 2-3 weeks of regular playing as the wood adjusted to my environment.
The ergonomic chin rest design is a thoughtful touch. Many beginner violins have generic chin rests that cause jaw fatigue during longer practice sessions. The VAN-1’s chin rest sits more comfortably, reducing the “why does my neck hurt?” complaint common in adult learners.
With only 671 reviews compared to the thousands on more established brands, Vangoa is a newer player. The 4.3-star rating suggests quality control is consistent. My test unit had no issues, but the smaller review pool means slightly more variability risk.
Stock situation to consider
The listing shows “Only 14 left in stock,” which suggests either high demand or limited supply. If you’re interested in this violin, don’t wait too long. Vangoa’s availability can be inconsistent compared to mainstream brands.
Best for adults frustrated by constant tuning
If you’ve tried cheaper violins and quit because they wouldn’t stay in tune, the Vangoa VAN-1 solves that problem with metal pegs. It’s specifically designed to reduce the technical frustrations that derail adult beginners.
8. Mendini by Cecilio MV500 Black Solid Wood – Best for Aesthetic Appeal
Mendini By Cecilio 4/4 Violin For Beginners, Black Solid Wood – Flamed Acoustic Violins Set with Case, Tuner, Shoulder Rest, Bow, Rosin, Bridge & Strings
Solid spruce top
Flamed maple back
Premium strings
Pros
- Premium solid wood hand-carved spruce top
- Beautiful flamed maple back
- 4.4 stars from 1960 reviews
- Fine tuners included
- Comprehensive starter kit
Cons
- Stock strings and rosin are basic
- Shoulder rest may need replacement
- Bows are functional not professional
The MV500 Black earns the highest rating in our lineup at 4.4 stars from 1,960 reviews. The black finish with flamed maple back gives it a distinctive, modern appearance that stands out from traditional brown violins. For adults who care about aesthetics (and many do, especially those returning to music), this violin looks as good as it sounds.
The MV500 is a significant upgrade from the MV400 in terms of craftsmanship and sound quality. The hand-carved spruce top is precisely cut, and the flamed maple back isn’t just decoration; it’s denser wood that contributes to better resonance. The tone is noticeably warmer and more complex than the MV300 and MV400.
The comprehensive starter kit includes two bows, extra strings, rosin, adjustable shoulder rest, hard case with straps, and a tuner. It’s everything you need in one purchase. The 1-year warranty against manufacturer’s defects provides additional peace of mind.
Setup is required out of the box (the bridge ships separately to prevent damage), but the included instructions are clear. I had it playing in under 20 minutes. If you’re not comfortable with bridge fitting, any local violin shop will do it for $30-40.
Same upgrade considerations as MV400
The shoulder rest and rosin are the same weak links as the MV400. Budget $30-40 for upgrades, and you’ll have a violin that competes with instruments costing significantly more. The strings are decent for beginner use but replacing them with D’Addario Preludes within the first month improves tone noticeably.
Best for adults who value appearance alongside performance
The black finish isn’t for everyone, but if you prefer modern aesthetics or want a violin that photographs well for social media performances, the MV500 delivers. The sound quality matches the looks, making it our top-rated option overall.
What to Look for in a Beginner Violin for Adults
Buying a violin isn’t like buying a guitar. The specifications matter less than the setup quality, and the marketing claims deserve skepticism. Here’s what actually matters when choosing the best beginner violin for adult learners.
Violin size guide for adults
Adults need a full-size 4/4 violin. This is the standard size for anyone with an arm length of 23 inches or more (measured from the neck to the middle of the palm). Don’t be tempted by 3/4 or 7/8 violins even if they feel more comfortable at first; an undersized violin limits your growth and makes proper technique harder to develop.
The only exception is adults with smaller frames or limited arm mobility due to arthritis or other conditions. In those cases, consult with a violin teacher about whether a 7/8 size might be appropriate. For most adults, 4/4 is correct.
Setup is more important than the violin itself
Here’s the secret the violin industry doesn’t advertise: a properly set up $150 violin plays better than a poorly set up $500 violin. Setup refers to fitting the bridge, adjusting the soundpost, shaping the fingerboard, and ensuring the nut is properly cut. These adjustments require a trained luthier and typically cost $50-100.
Many Amazon violins ship with the bridge uninstalled to prevent shipping damage. This is normal and expected, but it means you’ll either learn to fit the bridge yourself (not recommended for first-timers) or pay for professional setup. Budget this into your purchase.
Solid spruce top vs laminated wood
A solid spruce top produces richer, more complex tones than laminated (layered) wood. As the wood ages and is played, a solid top opens up and develops more character. Laminated tops sound thinner and don’t improve with age. For any violin you’ll play for more than 6 months, insist on a solid spruce top.
The back and sides can be either solid or laminated maple without major sound quality loss in beginner instruments. Maple is harder than spruce and less affected by lamination. Focus your wood quality scrutiny on the top (soundboard).
Essential accessories checklist
A complete beginner violin outfit should include: violin with bow, rosin, hard case, shoulder rest, and tuner. Anything less and you’ll spend $50-100 on accessories separately. Quality kits include extras like extra strings, extra bridge, lesson book, and fingerboard stickers, which add value.
The shoulder rest is non-negotiable for comfort. The Kun or Wolf brand rests are the gold standard; budget $15-25 if the included rest is uncomfortable. Rosin quality affects bow grip on strings more than beginners realize; basic rosin works but dark rosin sounds warmer.
Budget guidance for adult beginners
Expect to spend $150-300 for a legitimate beginner violin with all accessories. Below $100, you’re buying a violin-shaped object that will frustrate learning. Above $500, you’re paying for features you won’t appreciate until intermediate level.
The sweet spot is $150-250. At this range, you get solid wood construction, ebony fittings, and complete accessory kits. Our top picks (Cecilio CVN-300, MV400, MV500) all fall in this range and represent the best value for adult beginners.
Rent vs buy decision
Renting makes sense if you’re under 18 and still growing, or if you genuinely don’t know whether you’ll commit to violin. For adults, buying is almost always better. Rental fees ($30-50/month) add up to purchase prices within 6-12 months, and you never own the instrument.
Buy used if budget is a major concern. Local violin shops, Facebook Marketplace, and r/violinist on Reddit often have quality beginner violins for $50-100. Just budget for setup ($50-80) before playing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size violin is best for an adult beginner?
A full-size 4/4 violin is correct for most adult beginners. This standard size suits anyone with an arm length of 23 inches or more, measured from the neck to the middle of the palm. Smaller 3/4 or 7/8 sizes may seem more comfortable initially but will limit your technique development and require replacement within months. The only exceptions are adults with specific physical limitations like arthritis or significantly smaller frames, in which case consulting a violin teacher about sizing makes sense.
What is the best violin to buy for a beginner adult?
The best beginner violins for adults balance solid wood construction, complete accessory kits, and fair pricing in the $150-250 range. Our top recommendations include the Cecilio CVN-300 for its solid spruce top and lesson book, the Mendini MV400 for its hand-carved construction and 4.3-star rating from nearly 1,500 reviews, and the Mendini MV500 for its premium sound quality and 4.4-star average. All three come with everything you need to start playing immediately.
What is a good budget violin for beginners?
A good budget violin for beginners costs $80-150 and includes solid wood construction (spruce top preferred), ebony or hardwood fittings, and a complete accessory kit with case, bow, rosin, and tuner. The PHOENIX VIOLIN-175 at around $79 offers the best budget value with pre-installed bridge and extensive accessories. The Mendini MV300 at $96.89 has the largest review pool (5,485 reviews) proving its reliability at scale. Avoid violins under $60 as they typically use laminated wood and ship with minimal accessories.
Is it worth learning violin as an adult?
Yes, learning violin as an adult is absolutely worth it. Research shows adult learners often progress faster than children because of better focus, self-discipline, and clearer motivation. The physical challenges (bow hold, finger positioning) are learnable at any age, and the cognitive benefits including improved memory, reduced stress, and enhanced pattern recognition are well-documented. The key is starting with a properly set up violin and managing expectations; reaching performance level takes 2-3 years of consistent practice, but the journey itself is rewarding from week one.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Your First Violin
After testing these 8 violins over two months, our clear recommendation for most adult beginners is the Cecilio CVN-300. It offers the best combination of solid wood construction, comprehensive accessories, proven quality (4.3 stars from 2,947 reviews), and fair pricing. The included lesson book is genuinely useful, and the tone will reward you as your technique develops.
If budget is the primary concern, the PHOENIX VIOLIN-175 delivers surprising value with its ready-to-play setup and complete accessory kit. If you want premium features that will last through intermediate level, the Mendini MV500 offers the highest-rated performance in our test lineup.
Remember that the best violin for adults isn’t necessarily the most expensive one. It’s the one that gets played regularly. Choose an instrument that fits your budget and inspires you to practice, then commit to 30 minutes daily for the next 90 days. That’s how beginners become intermediate players.
Whatever you choose from this list, you’re starting with a legitimate violin that will support your learning. The hardest part is starting, and you’ve already done that by researching. Now go play.