When students make the transition from renting to owning a string instrument, one of the biggest questions parents have is:
How much will it cost to buy a beginner violin, viola, cello, or bass?
At Von’s Violin Shop, we’re committed to helping students and families make informed decisions about buying instruments. Whether you’re ready to purchase your first instrument or you’ve outgrown rental and want something to call your own, this guide will give you a realistic picture of what to expect.
Why Buy Instead of Rent?
Before we dive into pricing, it’s worth briefly discussing why families consider buying.
Owning an instrument can make sense when:
- A student is committed to playing long-term
- You want more control over setup and customization
- You’re ready for an instrument with better tone or durability than a rental
- You want to build value in the instrument instead of paying monthly rent
Many families begin with renting and then purchase, applying rental credits toward ownership to ease the transition.
What Determines the Cost of a Beginner Instrument?
Unlike rental pricing, which is uniform across sizes, the purchase price of a string instrument varies based on several factors:
- Make and model – Intermediate instruments come in different brands and quality tiers
- New vs. used – Pre-owned instruments can offer big savings
- Level of setup – A professional setup by a luthier increases playability and value
At Von’s, you’ll find a variety of instruments appropriate for your student — from value-oriented student models to instruments that will serve a professional player for years.
Typical Price Ranges for Instruments
Here’s a general look at what parents can expect to spend when purchasing beginner string instruments — based on common inventory and market standards (and reflected in Von’s current sales catalog):
Violins
Violins suitable for students often range from approximately $1,000 to $3,500.
These instruments are:
- Properly constructed for student playing
- Durable enough for regular practice
- Responsive and well-balanced for learning
Some models can be a bit higher or lower in price, depending on maker and condition — and we regularly adjust our inventory.
Violas
Violas are generally priced similarly to violins, but because they vary more in size and wood supply, you’ll typically see beginner violas in the $1,100 to $4,500 range.
Finding the right viola for a student involves:
- Proper size matching
- Balanced tone
- Stable setup for comfortable play
If you’re uncertain about size, our sizing blog post can help guide you. www.northlandviolins.com
Cellos
Cellos are larger and more complex to build, so Von’s models typically start around $1,800 and up. Many quality student cellos at Von’s sit in the $1,800–$4,500+ range.
Cello choice often depends on:
- Student age and size
- Desired tonal commitment
- Quality of materials
Because cellos are substantial instruments, professional setup is especially important for playability.
Double Basses
At Von’s double basses tend to start higher due to size and construction complexity. Expect beginning student basses to be $2,800 and up, with good used options often providing savings. Double basses are less sought after, so one may not be in stock at all times.
At Von’s, our expert team can help find a bass that fits both size and budget.
Accessories and Setup
When considering the cost to buy, don’t forget essential accessories which are sold separately from the instrument:
- Bow — Good quality student-grade bows make a big difference
- Case — Protection for travel and storage
- Rosin & cleaning cloth — For everyday playing and maintenance
Most instruments are not sold as outfits that include these basics. This allows the buyer to pick and choose the instrument and bow, that produces the best sound for them. Even though accessories are sold separately, Von’s maintains a broad selection.
Buying Used vs. New
Purchasing a used student instrument can significantly reduce cost — sometimes by 30–50% compared to new. Von’s Violin Shop is known for high quality, and thus very expensive instruments that can sell for tens of thousands of dollars. Being a used instrument does not always lower the price!
When buying used, it’s especially important to have a professional evaluation. At Von’s, every used instrument is checked and set up by our Master Luthiers before sale so you know what you’re getting. This ensures:
- Good playability
- Structural integrity
- Value for your money
How Rental Credit Can Help
If your student has been renting from Von’s, the rental credit they’ve accumulated can be applied toward the purchase of a suitable instrument — making ownership more affordable and rewarding after commitment.
Why Buy Locally at Von’s Violin Shop
When you buy from a local shop like Von’s, you benefit from:
- In-person care and advice – we stand behind our Products and service
- Professional setup by luthiers
- Ongoing support and adjustments
- Access to lessons, repair, and upgrades under one roof
These are advantages you won’t get from buying a generic instrument online.
For over 30 years, Von’s has been Denver’s home for string players — from beginners to professionals.
Final Thoughts
Buying a beginner string instrument is an investment in your student’s musical journey. While prices vary depending on instrument type, make, age, quality and condition, understanding typical ranges helps families plan wisely.
Ready to Choose Your Instrument?
Visit Von’s Violin Shop to:
- Try instruments in person
- Get expert sizing and evaluation
- Ask about rental credit toward purchase
We’re here to support you and your student at every step of the musical journey — from first note to confident performance.