Choosing violin and viola gear can feel overwhelming, especially for amateur musicians who may be looking to upgrade without the help of a teacher or professional. From selecting strings and rosin to deciding when it’s time to upgrade an instrument or visit a luthier, gear choices can have a real impact on how enjoyable playing feels.

As an amateur violinist and violist with experience both as a young student and as an adult amateur musician, it has taken time to find the right equipment that suits me and supports my playing. Over time, I’ve experimented with strings, rosins, instruments, and setups in a variety of settings from community orchestras, Baroque ensembles, chamber music settings, to playing daily in my own practice room.

This page serves as the central guide to violin and viola gear on Tuning in Fifths, bringing together my gear reviews, maintenance advice, and buying strategies for amateur musicians. Whether you’re choosing your first viola, refining your string setup, or just looking for your next favorite set of strings, this guide will help you make informed, practical decisions.

What You’ll Find in This Guide

• Instrument reviews and buying advice from an amateur player’s perspective
• Guidance on choosing strings and rosin for different playing needs and climates
• Practical maintenance advice for violin and viola
• Strategies for buying gear thoughtfully and affordably

Instruments & Bows

Choosing an instrument or making a major gear change is a significant decision for an amateur musician. The articles in this section focus on how to choose a violin, viola, or bow suitable for your own needs as a player, grounded in real-world experience.

A Practical Review of the Charlie Ogle Baroque Violin

A firsthand review of a workshop-made Baroque violin used in a community Baroque orchestra, with a focus on playability, tone, and ensemble use from an amateur player’s perspective.

So You Want to Play Viola? Here’s How to Find the Right One

An overview of how to shop for a viola, including when to rent versus buy, how to think about size and comfort, and what to prioritize when choosing your first instrument.

Baroque Violin Gear for Amateur Players: Bows, Strings and Instruments

A guide to gear up for early music and baroque violin and viola playing including what to look for and where to source instruments, bows, gut strings, and more.

Violin & Viola Strings

Strings have a dramatic impact on tone, response, and playability. These guides explore both how different string sets sound and feel under the fingers, and how to shop for strings wisely as an amateur player or adult learner.

Favorite Violin String Sets for Tone, Response and Playability

A curated list of string sets I return to for modern and Baroque playing, with notes on sound, feel, and responsiveness.

Where To Find the Best Prices on Violin Strings (And When to Buy)

A practical guide to buying strings more affordably, including where to shop, how to find sales and coupons, and what to watch out for when comparing prices.

Rosin Choices by Climate & Playing Style

Rosin preferences vary widely depending on climate, playing environment, and personal taste. These articles explore selecting rosin that is suitable for you as player, and keeping climate in mind to help guide your decision.

Best Violin Rosin for Winter: Seasonal Choices for Cold and Dry Weather

An overview of how temperature and humidity affect rosin performance, with recommendations for winter and all-season options.

The Best Rosin for Every Type of Violinist

A guide to rosin choices by player type, from students to amateurs to professionals, including both affordable everyday options and higher-end brands.

Care & Maintenance for Amateur Players

Regular maintenance helps your instrument stay responsive and enjoyable to play. This section focuses on what amateur musicians should know about violin family instruments and when it’s time to seek the professional help of a luthier.

Basic Violin and Viola Maintenance: A Practical Guide for Amateur Players

An introduction to routine care and maintenance considerations, including when to schedule adjustments with a luthier and how to keep your instrument in good playing condition.

What’s Next

This gear guide will continue to grow as I publish additional reviews, and practical advice for amateur musicians. Future topics may include:

• Selecting a bow to suit your instrument
• Violin and viola case reviews
• How to find a shoulder and chin rest that makes playing more comfortable

If you’re exploring gear as an amateur musician, student, you’re in the right place.