What Really Matters When Evaluating a Violin
Every now and then, I find myself watching violin-related videos that are truly interesting. Recently, two very different ones caught my attention, each approaching, in its own way, the classic question: what makes a violin “good”?
In the first video, the violinist and co-founder of MyLuthier.co shares valuable insights on how to choose a violin. He highlights the importance of projection—that is, the ability of the sound to carry well through a room. And he’s absolutely right. For those playing in orchestras or large concert halls, projection is essential. But as accurate as that point is, it’s still just one of many important factors.
The second video, by Brazilian violinist Isabelle Portela, is a light and engaging piece where she plays two violins and invites viewers to guess which one is more expensive. One costs R$600, the other R$6000. The surprise? Most people guessed wrong. Many commented that the cheaper violin “sounded better”—and based on what we hear through a phone, it might really seem that way.
But that’s where the real reflection begins.
Why You Shouldn’t Judge a Violin by a Phone Recording
Evaluating a violin based on what you hear in an Instagram video is like judging a painting through a blurry, poorly lit photo. Think about it: the sound is captured by a phone microphone (which reduces and compresses the audio), then further compressed by the platform, and finally, in most cases, played back through tiny phone speakers or low-quality earbuds. By the time it reaches your ears, much of the original sound has been lost.
This doesn’t mean those videos aren’t valuable, they’re fun and raise great questions. But we need to be cautious about drawing firm conclusions based solely on what we hear online.
What Should You Really Be Looking At?
When evaluating a violin—whether to play, purchase, or study—there’s much more to consider than just isolated sound:
-
Materials Used
A violin made from high-quality spruce and maple will behave acoustically very differently from one built with generic or low-density wood—not to mention the impact of varnish, natural glues, and other materials. -
Construction Process
Was it made by an experienced luthier or mass-produced in a factory? Attention to millimetric details, plate graduations, and control of unwanted vibrations all influence the final result.. -
Setup and Adjustment
The bridge, strings, fingerboard... all of these play a crucial role in the instrument’s response, comfort, and overall sound. -
Provenance and History
Who built it? Where? Is it a violin with a known history or simply labeled as a “copy” of something? An instrument with solid documentation tends to maintain value and identity over time. -
Aesthetics and Finish
While appearance doesn’t play music, the visual details—such as the varnish and wood grain—often reflect the level of care taken in the construction. -
The Sound, in the Right Context
Of course, sound matters. But it should be heard live, with a proper bow, in an appropriate acoustic space, and ideally with someone listening from a few meters away.
No Magic Formula
The conclusion is simple: there’s no single test, no magical video that can tell you everything about a violin. Like people, violins are complex. Choosing one involves your ears, your eyes, your hands—and often, your heart.
If in doubt, talk to a trusted violinist or luthier. Try the instrument in person. Let it speak to you directly—not through compressed pixels.
Evaluating a Violin?