The best violin stand will be long-lasting, meet your musical needs, and stay within your budget. There are a variety of metal and wood stands to choose from, and you may need to try a few to find the one that is right for you. Violin stands can be found in stores that specialize in musical instruments and accessories, catalogs, and online retailers.
Before you start shopping, you should figure out what you need. Musicians who play more than one instrument during a performance frequently use a violin stand. Instructors who find themselves using their own violin for demonstration during rehearsals, lessons, or master classes will benefit from violin stands. The violin hanger, which can be mounted on a wall or on the shaft of a music stand, is an alternative to a violin stand.
Hangers are useful for musicians who simply want to keep the violin out of the way so that it is easier to access. Violin hangers are less expensive than violin stands. They mount on a bracket to the wall or to the pole of a music stand. Because the instrument is hung out of reach of small children and pets, wall hangers save space and add an extra layer of security.
After you’ve decided whether a stand or a hanger is better for you, think about your budget. All violin stands do the same thing: they support your instrument. Additional features are available on some stands, but they may be more expensive.
A well-made, low-cost stand will typically last as long as an expensive, hand-carved wooden stand. It may even last longer because no special maintenance is required. If cost is more important than style, go for the cheapest stand that meets your requirements.
A bow hook is an optional feature that allows you to hang your bow on the stand. Another is a fretboard bar that locks over the violin’s neck to prevent it from falling off the stand. There are designs that keep the violin firmly on the stand without the use of a fretboard bar providing a snug hold on the violin’s body. Because there is no extraneous hardware blocking the view of the violin, these are also excellent for displaying it.
There are stands that are very light and portable, but they may lack features such as a fretboard lock or a bow stand. It’s possible that you’ll have to experiment with different stand styles to find the one that’s right for you. In some cases, the advantages of the smaller, lighter stand outweigh its lack of features.
Before purchasing a violin stand, it is best to see it in person. When inspecting a stand, look for a sturdy construction that does not wobble. Wherever the instrument rests, a good stand will have velvet, foam, or rubber cushions. This ensures that the instrument and its varnish are not harmed the stand. Bring your instrument and try it out on the stand if at all possible.