Gear article
Stentor Graduate Violin Outfit 1/8
The Stentor Graduate is a 1/8 size student violin outfit constructed from solid tonewoods and designed for progressing young musicians. It features a traditional satin varnish finish and comes as a complete package including a bulletwood bow, a hygrometer, and a protective oblong case.

Background and Design
Stentor is a well-established name in educational string instruments, providing a tiered range of violins for students at various stages of development. The Graduate series sits above the basic entry-level models, offering enhanced specifications for students who have moved past the initial beginner phase. This 1/8 size model is specifically scaled for younger children, providing a manageable frame without sacrificing the material quality found in larger models.
The instrument is distinguished by its satin varnish, which provides a warm brown aesthetic compared to the high-gloss finishes often found on lower-priced alternatives. This finish is intended to be both visually attractive and durable for the student environment.
Material Specifications
The Stentor Graduate is carved from solid tonewoods, which is a significant step up from laminated or plywood instruments. The use of solid wood allows for better resonance and longevity. Key hardware components include:
- Fingerboard and Pegs: Made from ebony, which provides the necessary density for tuning stability and a smooth surface for the player's fingers.
- Tailpiece: A composite tailpiece featuring integral adjusters (fine tuners) for all four strings, allowing for more precise pitch adjustments than pegs alone.
- Bow: A bulletwood bow is included, which is a traditional choice for educational outfits.

Included Accessories
The 'Outfit' designation indicates that the instrument is sold as a ready-to-play kit. This specific model is supplied with a stylish oblong case rather than the standard shaped case often found with budget violins. Notably, the case includes a built-in hygrometer, a tool used to monitor humidity levels to prevent the solid wood from cracking or warping. These additions make the Graduate outfit a more professional-oriented choice for a student kit.
Target Audience and Application
At a 1/8 size, this instrument is designed for very young students, typically between the ages of 5 and 6, depending on arm length. It is marketed as a 'progressing student' instrument, meaning it is suited for those who have shown commitment to the instrument and require a higher standard of playability and tone than a basic starter violin. The inclusion of ebony fittings and a composite tailpiece directly supports the technical needs of a student learning to tune and perform more complex pieces.
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Frequently asked questions
- What size is the Stentor Graduate Violin in this outfit?
- This specific model is a 1/8 size violin. It is designed for young children who are too small for a 1/4 or 4/4 size instrument.
- What type of wood is used in the construction of the Stentor Graduate?
- The instrument is carved from solid tonewoods. This construction method generally offers superior sound quality compared to laminated woods.
- What kind of finish does the Stentor Graduate have?
- It features a satin varnish. This gives the violin an attractive, warm brown appearance and a smooth feel.
- Does the Stentor Graduate 1/8 come with a case?
- Yes, it is supplied with a stylish oblong case. The oblong shape often provides more storage space than a standard shaped violin case.
- What is the purpose of the hygrometer included in the case?
- The hygrometer measures the humidity levels inside the case. This is important for solid wood instruments as it helps the owner ensure the violin is stored in safe environmental conditions.
- What material are the fingerboard and pegs made of?
- The fingerboard and pegs are made from ebony. Ebony is preferred for its durability and the stability it provides for tuning.
- Is a bow included with the Stentor Graduate outfit?
- Yes, a bulletwood bow is included as part of the outfit. It is designed to complement the instrument for student use.
- Does this violin have fine tuners?
- Yes, the violin features a composite tailpiece with integral adjusters. These allow the student to make accurate tuning adjustments easily.
- Who is the Stentor Graduate violin designed for?
- It is designed for the progressing student. It serves as an upgrade from basic entry-level violins for students moving forward in their musical education.
- How does the Stentor Graduate compare to the Stentor Messina?
- The Stentor Graduate is aimed at progressing students and usually comes as a full outfit. The Stentor Messina is a higher-tier instrument often sold as the instrument only, typically for more advanced players.
- What is the typical price for the Stentor Graduate 1/8 Outfit?
- The typical price for this specific 1/8 outfit is approximately GBP 227. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
- Can the tailpiece on this violin be adjusted?
- The included tailpiece has built-in fine tuners for precision. For users seeking specialized aftermarket parts, brands like Wittner offer adjustable position tailpieces, though the Graduate comes with a high-quality composite one as standard.
