How much do violin lessons cost?
The violin is one of the world’s most mysterious and renowned stringed instruments, whether it’s a 200-year-old Guarnerius, a million-dollar Stradivarius, or an inexpensive starter violin. Violinists can play some of the world’s most recognizable classical musical pieces, including Bach’s Chaconne and Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto, as well as pop songs such as the Verve’s Bittersweet Symphony. Children who learn to play the violin gain many benefits, including improved concentration, enhanced self-discipline and greater upper body strength. Like any private lessons, the cost of violin lessons depends on the cost of the instrument and the fees for the lessons.
Renting versus buying
Parents can either buy or rent an instrument for their children. In the short term, renting a violin is less expensive than buying one; however, this monthly fee may end up costing more than the instrument itself if the child pursues playing for more than a year. Depending on the provider, violin rentals cost $15–$50 a month.
For young children, purchasing a beginner’s violin can cost anywhere from $50 to $500, depending on the quality and size of the instrument. For more skilled students, expect to pay between $600 and $1,500, while advanced instruments cost $1,500 to $3,500.
Private lessons
Lessons should be customized to each child’s needs and abilities. Expect each weekly lesson to last 30 to 60 minutes. Look for teachers, such as Jeannie Signorelli Morgenbesser in Boca Raton, Florida, who are professional musicians with teaching experience; consider hiring a member of the local musician’s union. Some teachers, such as Morgenbesser, will come to the student’s home, while others teach out of their own studios.
Fee structure
The longer the lesson, the more it will cost. Mirabai Peart, a violin teacher in Portland, Oregon, offers 30-minute, 45-minute and 60-minute lessons. Monthly lessons paid in advance cost $30, $35 and $45, respectively. One-off lessons cost $35, $45 and $50, respectively.
Other costs
The cost of violin maintenance must also be factored in. Strings must be replaced regularly. These cost anywhere from $.70 to $5 each, and rosin, which costs $3–$15, must always be on hand.
