A beginner in violin here!

I've started out by hiring a Stentor student outfit but have just recently decided to get a violin for myself.

I'm in UK at the moment so I have decided to get my hands on a Gliga violin. I've also read a lot of favourable review on violin by Chinese maker, Yitamusic.

I just wondered whether these violins are available in Malaysia? They should cost between RM1000 to RM2000.

I am just going for the Gems version. I've read about the review between Gama and Maestro series, whereby there really isn't much difference other than the price tag.

I went for Gliga because the supplier is in the UK, making the dealings much easier.

From the review I gather, Gliga seems to be best for students.

What sort of strings do you use? The string maker may have a matching rosin for the strings.

I am using Pirastro Goldflex, which is a good step up from the dodgy brandless rosin.

It may be worth getting better strings, e.g. Dominant as they really make a difference as compared to student strings.

Well, my feeling is that if you don't have a decent string, then there really isn't any great worth getting better rosin.

In terms of the strings on a cheap violin, from speaking to luthiers and experienced violinists, the suggestion is always to get a set of decent strings if your pocket allows you to. I find better strings are easier to hold down and others thought so as well.

TandooriC

I've asked my teacher the question before and her answer was:

1) Always loosen the bow hair after playing, keeping in tight will stretch the hair and over time, you will need to constantly tighten it further and further.

2) The tightness as many suggested, depends on you. But as a simple rule of thumb, your pinky finger should fit into the gap between the bow and the string. Obviously if you have fat fingers ...