
Educational Corner
Violin, Viola, Cello, or Bass: Which is the Right String Instrument for Me?
In this article, we'll provide a rundown of the pros and cons of each bowed string instrument in the violin family.

Educational Corner
The Problem with Cheap Violins
There are a lot of inexpensive violins for beginners, but there's a reason they're so cheap. In short, you end up paying one way or another.

Pop Culture & Lifestyle
String Theory: A Progressive Rock Violin Primer
An overview of how violins infiltrated rock & roll in the progressive (prog) era, featuring King Crimson, Kansas, Curved Air, and more.

Educational Corner
String Mutes: What Difference Do They Make?
Exploring the difference between mute styles and materials for string instruments (violin, viola, cello, and double bass).

Pop Culture & Lifestyle
Memphis Shakedown: How Blues Fiddle Changed 20th Century Popular Music
A brief history of the blues fiddle and its place in 20th Century popular music. Featuring The Mississippi Sheiks, Big Bill Broonzy, and more.

Pop Culture & Lifestyle
Living a Life of Musical Diversity
Detroit violinist Michelle May share her view on diversity in classical music.

Educational Corner
Is Violin Hard To Learn?: A Conversation with Kiana June Weber
A discussion with the renowned fiddler Kiana June Weber (Gaelic Storm, 'Come From Away') on that eternal beginner question: is it hard to learn the violin?

Fun & Entertainment
The Ultimate Shar Music® Gift Blog (Selected by Our Staff)
Our staff goes wild and picks exactly what THEY would like as gifts from Shar.

Finding the Best Violin for Beginners
There are many beginner violins for sale online, but how can you tell which ones will actually help a student learn to love the violin?