How To Choose A Case For Your Stringed Instrument

By Author: Nathan Weiss
Total Articles: 131
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When faced with a multitude of options, determining the right case for your fine violin, viola or cello can bean intimidating undertaking. To find the case that’s best for you, you will need to consider your lifestyle as a musician, your environment and your budget.



Violinists who own fine violins should be mostly concerned with durability and should look at hard-shell cases. Suspension systems absorb the impact of any shock from being dropped or knocked heavily. The harder the case, the softer the suspension will be, which serves as better protection for the instrument. An instrumentalist with a hard-shelled case can rest assured that their instrument has superior protection.



Musicians on the go may prefer a lighter-weight case, as hard shell cases can be extremely heavy. However, a violinist constantly on the move and with many gigs should also be concerned with durability. Recent strides in anti-shock suspension technology have made durable lightweight cases more affordable. For the instrumentalist ...
... on a budget, straps and padding are available to make a hard case easier to carry.



A fine instrument can suffer a great deal of damage from abrupt and constant changes in temperature and humidity. The dry air of winter and sudden shifts into warm indoor environments can be enough to cause damage to an instrument. Humidifiers can work to preserve your violin, viola or cello against dryness. Hygrometers gauge the level of humidity inside the case, letting you know if the instrument is too humid or dry.



Some cases come with extra security, including multiple locks, extra latches, snaps and zippers. For the musician who likes to put everything in one place, many cases come with extra compartments for storing sheet music and portfolios. Some even have room for your keys and other personal items. Higher-grade cases for cellos, violas and violins come with these and other options that, while fancy, may not be necessary.