The Violin Family We carry an extensive selection of violins, violas and cellos, from starter kits to fine concert instruments. We stock Eastman, Scott Cao, Palatino and TJ Strings models, Spiccato and Coda carbon fiber bows, plus a wide range of used and vintage strings.    We also have everything needed to service your instrument, and offer an onsite instrument repair service. Some of our current stock (new and used) is listed on our used & vintage page. What is the difference between a fiddle and a violin? None - a fiddle is a violin! Some fiddlers sand down the bridge to ease the play, but a fiddle and a violin are the same instrument. For fiddles, what size should I buy for what age? One rule of thumb is 1/8 for 3-4 year olds, 1/4 for 5-6 year olds, and 1/2 for 7-8 year olds. But the real rule is rule of arm: if at all possible, you'll want to size the instrument to the individual child. Palatino offers a reasonably priced violin for students in the growing period. Where can I find a violin teacher? Check out the Humboldt Folklife Society's list of private teachers or contact the Humboldt State Music Academy.    TJ STRINGS TJ Strings are a superior line of Chinese imports. We carry their violins, violas and cellos, which are setup locally by expert repairman and crafter Jeff Doherty. (Setup work includes bridges, strings and fingerboard). Most TJ Strings instruments are sold with bow and case.    EASTMAN All Things Strings reviewed 18 starter outfits. Of Eastman, they wrote that "Excellent playability, mellow tone, subtle response, and dynamic projection made this outfit a definitive favorite with our review team... We are confident recommending the Eastman violin to the advanced student as well as the promising beginner." Read the whole article online at All Things Strings.    SCOTT CAO Concert artists around the world use Scott Cao violins and cellos, but many models are available at reasonable prices. All Things Strings judges the Cao sound as "complex, with good projection and lush tone... a good investment if you're looking for a workshop instrument with the price tag of a factory-made model."    PALATINO A Palatino is an excellent instrument for the beginning fiddler. Palatinos are available in full size, plus 1/8, 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4.