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.

Stentor Graduate Violin Outfit 1/8
Stentor Graduate Violin Outfit 1/8
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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.
G4M Solus Electric Violin Midnight Ebony
G4M Solus Electric Violin Midnight Ebony

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.