10 Best Cecilio Violins 2025 in the United States

The Mendini by Cecilio Violin is an appealing choice for beginners, whether they are kids or adults. Its elegant design features a hand-carved spruce top and maple back, neck, and sides, giving it a pleasing aesthetic that sets a good first impression for new players. One of the standout aspects is the inclusion of a complete starter kit—complete with a bow, rosin, extra strings, and an adjustable shoulder rest—which makes it convenient for learners who need everything in one package.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The violin's setup requires careful handling; the bridge is not installed to prevent damage during shipping, and the tuning pegs must be adjusted with caution. This could be a bit challenging for absolute beginners who might struggle with tuning and setting up the instrument.

The available sizes are a plus, allowing players to find the right fit, which is crucial for comfort and playability. The lightweight hard case adds an element of protection, making it easier to transport the violin safely. It’s best suited for beginners who are just diving into the world of music and looking for a reliable instrument to start their journey.

The Cecilio CVN-320L is a left-handed violin designed for musicians who prefer a full-size 4/4 instrument. Its solid spruce wood top and maple back contribute to a warm, rich sound that’s suitable for both beginners and more experienced players. The craftsmanship is commendable, featuring inlaid purfling and an attractive antique varnish finish, which not only enhances its visual appeal but also provides durability.

One of the major strengths of this violin is its sound quality, particularly when equipped with D'Addario Prelude strings, which are known for their warm tone and playability. The included ebony fittings, such as the fingerboard and chinrest, add to its high-quality feel and function.

The setup process is straightforward, and the package includes essential accessories like a chromatic tuner, lesson book, lightweight hard case, and two Brazilwood bows. This makes it a great choice for beginners who need a complete starter kit. Additionally, it comes with an adjustable shoulder rest and quality rosin, ensuring that players have everything they need to get started right away. The weight at 5 pounds makes it slightly heavier than some other beginner violins, which could be a consideration for younger players or those sensitive to weight while playing. Despite these minor issues, the Cecilio CVN-320L remains a solid option for left-handed violinists looking for a reliable and aesthetically pleasing instrument.

The Mendini By Cecilio Violin is a full-sized, 4/4 violin that caters to both kids and adults, making it ideal for beginners and students. Its hand-carved spruce top and maple back and sides offer an elegant and appealing design, finished with a natural varnish that enhances its visual appeal. The inclusion of a maple fingerboard, chin rest, and an alloy tailpiece with four fine tuners adds to its craftsmanship. In terms of material, the violin uses quality woods and alloy steel strings, promising durability and satisfactory sound quality for beginners.

The setup can be a bit daunting, as the bridge is not pre-installed to prevent damage during shipping, which may require some assistance from a more experienced player or teacher. The tuning pegs need careful handling, as they must be pushed in while adjusting to maintain proper tuning. The kit is comprehensive, including a bow, extra strings, two bridges, quality rosin, an adjustable shoulder rest, a clip-on tuner, and a lightweight hard case, which is convenient for beginners.

The first lesson book and online companion download provide a good starting point for learning basic techniques and reading music. However, the bow provided might not be of the highest quality and may need an upgrade as the player progresses. The accessories, while useful, are basic and might need replacement with more advanced options over time. This violin is a good entry-level option for those new to playing the instrument, offering a balance of affordability, quality, and essential features to get started.