Visiting the Violin Shop: Dos and Dont's

This is a good topic to bring up. There are a few things to know before you visit your local violin shop. If you plan on trying out instruments or bows it is best to call ahead for an appointment. Before you call decide what your price range is so that the shop can have a chance to have the instruments tuned and ready for you when you get there. Also, it will help the shop have a sales person available to help you. If there is someone that you know at the shop, and enjoy working with, then make sure that you request that person and schedule a time when that person is available. Also, it is important if you want to try out chin rests or shoulder rests, to schedule an appointment. This can be a very time consuming process and the violin shop will need to have someone available that can help you. Some shops will let you take a few chin rests and shoulder rests on approval so that you and your teacher can get just the right fit.

Another point is repair. On occasion there is an emergency but general maintenance such as a bow rehair, cleaning and polishing are not emergencies. Plan ahead for general maintenance and take it in when you can be without your instrument for a few days. Most shops do not have loaner instruments so plan accordingly.

If you have a problem with an instrument or bow after just having some work done, call the shop right away. In many cases it is a very simple adjustment. Don't hastily spread bad rumors about the shop.

Also:

1. For most shops week days are better than weekends. In our shop, Saturdays can be crazy and we don't always have enough time to devote to everyone's needs. That is also the day that people come in from out of town. If you live in town and can come on a week day chances are that you'll get much better attention.

2. It's good to have an instrument check up at least once a year. If it's possible twice a year is even better. If you notice any drastic change in your instrument bring it in right away. A drastic change would be buzzing, rattling, or a dramatic change in the sound. An emergency would be a crack or open seam or any other "major" damage.

3. A good consumer will shop around however, buying a stringed instrument is much different than buying an ipod. It is very important to establish a good relationship with the shop and that you trust them. Get advice from your teacher and other players about which shop(s) to go to. Another point (maybe off subject) is to ask your teacher if they take commissions (or secret kickbacks) from any shop. If they do, this could cloud their judgment.
If you get several instruments on approval from different shops, take them home and spend time with each one, also take all (or your favorites) to your lesson.
If your teacher spends extra time outside of the lesson helping you with your selection be sure to pay the teacher for their time.