Few instruments match the beauty of orchestral strings. Also known as chordophones, stringed instruments provide a harmonious accent to the composition when played with other instruments, and when played in isolation, they can craft an enchanting melody. It’s no wonder why so many people are attracted to these instruments, and with so many different options, there’s a stringed instrument for everybody. If you aspire to master one of them, consider this guide to narrow down your options and find the one that’s best for you.
About Orchestral Strings
The string section of an orchestra typically comprises violin, viola, harp, double bass, and cello. These instruments make up a small portion of the orchestra, but their impact is mighty. No orchestra is complete without them. If you or your child want to learn a stringed instrument, Milano Music Center is the destination. Our selection of orchestral strings includes models that are perfect for beginners and professional selections that are fit for performers. Consider the following popular options if you’re trying to decide which stringed instrument to choose.
Types of Orchestral Strings
When choosing a stringed instrument, it can be difficult to make a selection. There are an array of choices — how can you know which is best? If you have trouble choosing, you can start by listening to each instrument in isolation and narrowing down which sound is most attractive to you. Consider, too, the difficulty of learning each instrument. The harp is often considered the easiest to learn, while the violin is one of the most difficult. With these considerations, find the instrument that seems best suited to your aspirations, and dive in!
Violin
Though it’s often called the most difficult stringed instrument to learn, the violin is a great option for beginners who want to pick up an instrument. Why? This instrument often offers a great value for initial investment, and lessons are often widely accessible. Additionally, the instrument itself is undoubtedly a beautiful sound. Violin may be difficult to learn, but it’s well worth the effort.
Viola
With roots dating to the 1400s, violas are the tenor of the stringed instrument class. This instrument is a fixture of classical music, and when you hear it, you’ll know why. Its warm sound is immediately recognizable, making it a favorite amongst professionals and beginners alike. Some say it is slightly easier to learn than a violin, too, making it a great option for students new to stringed instruments.
Cello
Of all the stringed instruments, perhaps the cello is the most versatile. Its size allows musicians to play it in three different clefs — bass, tenor, and treble. This makes it an asset to any orchestra and a promising instrument to learn for any musical student. No matter what clef it is played in, the cello produces a reliably mellow sound, making it ideal for players drawn to calmer-sounding instruments.
Double Bass
The sound of the double bass transcends genre. Outside of an orchestra, it can be heard in nearly every style of music. The adaptability makes it an asset to professionals and performers, but it also makes it attractive to learners, too. The double bass is particularly notable for its low tone. As the lowest-pitched part of the viol section, it often offers the tonal foundation of the composition being played.
Electric Strings
Electric strings are the best way for players who want to take their performance to the next level. Violins are most commonly found with electric components, though sometimes other stringed instruments are available in electric versions, too. Electric strings offer clear benefits — players can easily control the sound and volume level of their instruments. This makes it great for beginners who want to practice in private.
Used Demo Strings
Musicians looking for a bargain will find it when shopping for used demo string instruments. These instruments are refurbished and rehabilitated to reflect the standard of excellence we hold all of our instruments to. Buying used offers some advantages in addition to savings. These instruments are inspected thoroughly by a qualified technician, so you can be confident it’s free from defects or damage.
String Instrument Accessories & More at Milano Music
In addition to string instruments, you need string instrument accessories. Accessories such as pickups, shoulder rests, bows, and rosin are essential to playing proficiently — and you never want to be left without an extra bridge in case yours breaks. Pick up all of the stringed instrument accessories you need at Milano Music Center. We offer the best selection and unbeatable value on all of our instruments and accessories.
Scottsdale’s Most Trusted Source for Music
Milano Music Center is the most trusted source for musical instruments and accessories in the greater Phoenix, AZ area. We serve professional musicians and aspiring learners alike by providing a wide range of top-quality instruments to choose from. If you’re having trouble finding the right instrument for you or your child, let us help. Our staff of professional experts is ready to help you. Call us at (480) 827-1111 or shop online to find the stringed instrument you’ve been looking for.
