If you are looking to purchase a violin, viola, cello, or bass I recommend only the following places and they are listed In order of recommendation. Always be sure to check which size your child would need.
^^^^^^Check out their sale/rental return instruments, just be sure you get a case and bow as well. ^^^^^^^
http://www.wwbw.com << ---- I only recommend these brands and these models, I do not recommend ANY colored or decorated instrument. You may also find these brands on Amazon.
Cecilio (CVN-300 and above and not colored ones) - these are okay
Cremona (SV-100 or above not colored) - this Is better
Stentor 1400 series and above - these are best but not as good as anything from sharmusic or swstrings .
http://musicarts.com - you can rent Instruments from here and then a part of It can go to purchase but If you want to go this route I recommend Mount Airy Violins over this store.
http://www.stringemporium.com (Check it out, lots of info for basses! Plus strings and cases for violin, viola and cello!)
http://www.stringemporium.com/basscafe.htm <----- Bass info ! Check out the videos!
Fine Instruments (more advanced students)
Mount Airy Violins - great for for the committed student. They have great rental plans and you build up a balance for a purchase. This would be your best investment option.
Mount Airy Violins & Bows
6665 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19119
215-438-9031
507 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 545-1100
osterviolins@gmail.com
http://www.stevensviolins.com/
Paul Stevens Violins
15 Simpson Rd.
Ardmore, PA 19003
(610) 649-0737
http://www.davidmichieviolins.com/
David Michie Violins
1714 Locust Street
Philadelphia PA 19103
215-545-5006
Harold Golden
7801 Winston Road
Philadelphia PA 19118
(215) 242-0307
Kot Violins
1048 W. Lancaster Ave.
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
E-mail: kotviolin@gmail.com
(610) 225-1870
(610) 527-5552 (during store hours)