More money than cents

Well, I did it again. That is to say, I got spoiled by playing a really good violin. On Fridays, I have my violin lesson with Keadron and two weeks ago, I left home on Friday morning without my instrument. Keadron was nonplussed and told me to come on anyway, that I could use her instrument and bow.

Playing that instrument ruined me for my own. It was so resonant and sweet that mine, when I returned that evening, seemed like frogs croaking in comparison.

I decided to do another upgrade and began looking at instruments. I started in Richmond, where I went through all of the instruments at three shops. When I didn't find what I wanted, then I decided to broaden my search and visited Lashof Violins in Maryland and also Brobst Violins in Alexandria.

At Lashof Violins, I auditioned about six instruments and five bows. I found one very nice German-made instrument. Only problem was it had a small crack in the spruce top and I avoid purchasing instruments with cracks. I did however purchase a bow at Lashof. It is a discontinued model: a Rolland (French) "Spicatto" carbon-fiber bow. The interesting thing about that bow is that it is adjustable. A small wrench came with the bow to increase or decrease the stiffness. I will experiment with it when I get time.

I found a French instrument at the Brobst shop which I liked. It was made by Clotelle of Mirecourt circa 1900 (the label doesn't say) and has a very full, mellow, and sweet sound. I took it on loan and let Keadron play it. She smiled when she did, remarking on its easy playability and "creamy" tone...my thoughts exactly as I purchased it.

I can recommend both the Lashof and Brobst shops as places with a large selection of quality instruments and bows. Their staff is very helpful and low-pressure as well.