ONLINE LINKS:

VIOLIN TUNER
 
METRONOME

MUSIC DICTIONARY
(look up the terms and Italian words in your music)

MUSIC NOTE FLASH CARD GAME 
(a fun way to learn to read music notes!)


LOCAL INSTRUMENTS, REPAIRS & MUSIC:

You can get wonderful services and supplies locally:

Stamell Stringed Instruments, Amherst. 413-256-0936
Downtown Sounds, Northampton. 413-586-0998
Amherst Music House, Amherst. 413-549-1728
Stacey Styles Violin Restoration, Holyoke. 413-322-9391

ONLINE SUPPLIES & MUSIC:

If you order online, I recommend using these established music companies (rather than a generic online site):

Shar Product Company
Southwest Strings
Johnson String Instrument 
Sheet Music Plus

 

INSTRUMENT CARE:

• Violins are delicate - don't leave them in the cold or heat, especially in a car. During the winter months use a Dampit or case humidifier for finer instruments.
• Bows: Rosin lightly for about every hour of playing, never touch the bow hair, and loosen it when you pack up.

ACCESSORIES:

• Strings:  I recommend the Dominant A, D & G, and Pirastro Wondertone E for full-sized instruments. Any label is OK for smaller sizes.
• Shoulder rests:  For half-sized violins and up, a "Kun" or the less expensive "Everest"
• Recorders:  The "Olympus Digital Voice VN-6000" recorder, available at Radio Shack for about $37, is an excellent choice