From Brands to Styles: Tips for Finding the Ideal Violin Case

When starting your journey as a violinist, you’ll quickly realize the importance of a protective case to keep your violin safe when traveling to lessons, concerts, or gigs. 

A high-quality violin case protects your violin from weather changes, accidental drops, and scratches. Unfortunately, with so many different options to choose from, most beginner violinists get overwhelmed when trying to find the perfect violin case. 

You may have heard of brands like Bam, Gewa, or Bobelock, but what about styles like shaped, contoured, or oblong cases? In this article, we'll look at various brands, styles, and must-have features to help you find your ideal violin case.

The importance of a high-quality violin case

Violin cases consist of a hard shell and soft interior padding to provide maximum protection for your new violin. They also have accessory compartments to store your bow, rosin, and spare strings. Here is why any violin player, regardless of skill level, should invest in a high-quality violin case:

Durable protection

A high-quality violin case protects your valuable instrument from damage caused by bumps, drops, and external impact. The best violin cases are made of durable materials like ABS plastic or fiberglass, which provide the highest level of protection. If you accidentally drop your case or it gets bumped during transportation, your violin will remain safe and unharmed.

Climate control

The violin is a very delicate instrument that is susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity. Exposing your violin to extreme temperatures or high moisture levels can cause significant damage, such as warping or cracking. 

However, a good case will have climate control features, such as a hygrometer and humidifier, to regulate the temperature and humidity levels within the case, ensuring your violin stays in top condition.

Security and safety

Violin cases also have secure locking mechanisms to protect your instrument from theft. Some cases even have GPS tracking features, so you can easily locate your case if it gets lost or stolen. Additionally, a high-quality case's sturdy hard shell protects against accidental damage, like being stepped on or dropped.

What are the top brands for violin cases?

Professional violinists highly recommend brands like Bam, Gewa, and Bobelock. These brands have been in the market for many years and have proven their quality and reliability. Other notable brands include Tonareli, Musafia, and Jakob Winter, which have gained a good reputation among violinists for their high-quality and stylish cases. 

Trala partners with our favorite companies to provide full beginner violin outfits — including a case tailored to the instrument. Let's go over some of the top brands in more detail.

Bam

Bam is a French brand known for its high-end violin cases, loved by professional violinists worldwide. This brand offers lightweight construction, innovative designs, and excellent protection. 

Bam has been in the market for over 40 years and has built a strong reputation for its craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to quality. Their handmade cases come in various styles, including shaped, contoured, and oblong, to suit different preferences. 

Some recommended Bam cases include the Classic Series, which offers a traditional look and sturdy protection, and the Bam Hightech series, known for its sleek and modern design. For violinists who travel frequently, their La Defense series offers superior impact protection and is designed for air travel.

Gewa

Founded in 1925 by Georg Walther, Gewa is a German brand that has produced high-quality violin cases for almost a century, and their experience shows in their craftsmanship. They offer several options, from traditional wooden cases to sleek carbon fiber cases, catering to different playing styles and travel habits. Gewa cases are known for their versatility, functionality, and value for money. 

Intermediate and advanced violinists love the Gewa Air series’ lightweight design and sturdy protection, while the Gewa Maestro series is popular among professional violinists for its elegant and sophisticated look. The Gewa Pure series, which combines affordability and durability in a modern and compact design, is perfect for beginner and intermediate players.

Bobelock

Bobelock is an American brand known for its affordable and durable violin cases, offering a balance of protection, functionality, and affordability. It's a popular brand among beginner and intermediate violinists. They have practical designs, affordable prices, and a commitment to providing cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. 

You can choose from various models, including shaped, oblong, and suspension cases. Popular options include the Bobelock 16002 series, which offers a classic and sturdy design, and the Bobelock 1003 Featherlight series, with its sleek and lightweight construction. The Bobelock Half-Moon violin case is another great choice that offers excellent protection for frequent travelers.

Tonareli

Another German brand that has gained popularity among students and professionals is Tonareli. They offer a wide range of violin cases in different styles, sizes, and price points to cater to the diverse needs of players. 

Tonareli is known for its expertise in creating lightweight, durable, and affordable cases that offer great value for the price. Depending on your preference, you can choose from oblong fiberglass, deluxe, oblong composite, or cello-shaped fiberglass cases. Their cases are also available in different colors to add a touch of personalization to your instrument. 

Notable cases include the Tonareli Deluxe Series, which offers a sleek design and sturdy protection, and the Tonareli Fiberglass series, with its lightweight construction and luxurious interior.

Negri

The Italian brand Negri is synonymous with luxury and elegance in the world of violin cases. Their premium cases are known for their exquisite materials, exceptional craftsmanship, and attention to detail. 

Handmade by skilled artisans, Negri cases are perfect for those who appreciate a blend of tradition and modernity. While they may come with a higher price tag, their durability and luxurious design make them worth the investment. 

Some notable Negri cases include the Diplomat Violin case, with its elegant and classic design, and the Milano Leather Violin case, known for its sophistication and luxurious leather exterior. They also have the Lord series, which offers a sleek and modern look. 

Exploring violin case styles: What to know

Violin cases can come in different styles, each with its unique features and benefits. So it’s important to consider your playing style, travel habits, and budget to find the best fit for your instrument. Here are the most common styles of violin cases:

Oblong cases

Oblong cases are the most traditional style of violin cases, with a rectangular shape that offers spaciousness and protection for your instrument. They usually have compartments to store accessories, sheet music, and even shoulder rests. While they are bulkier than other styles, oblong violin cases offer a classic and timeless design that many violinists appreciate.

Contoured cases

Contoured cases offer a sleek and lightweight alternative to oblong cases. They fit the shape of your violin, with a curved exterior that hugs the curves of your instrument for a snug and secure fit. 

Contoured cases are usually made from materials like foam or carbon fiber, making them lightweight and easy to carry around. They often have backpack straps for comfortable carrying and are a great option for those who travel frequently.

Shaped cases

You can easily mistake shaped cases for contoured cases because of their similar shape. However, unlike contoured cases, shaped cases fit a specific type of instrument. They offer a snug and secure fit for instruments with unique shapes, such as electric violins or baroque violins, providing exceptional protection for these delicate instruments. 

They’re also the lightest and most compact case options, making shaped cases perfect for those who prefer a minimalist and lightweight option.

Modern cases

Modern cases offer a fusion of style and functionality, catering to the needs of modern violinists. They come with features such as:

• Detachable shoulder straps
• Backpack attachments
• Music pockets
• Bow holders
• Multiple compartments for accessories

Their sleek, compact, and lightweight designs make them popular among students, professionals, and frequent travelers. Some modern cases even come with temperature and humidity control systems, offering extra protection for your instrument in different climates.

How to select the ideal violin case for your violin

We've gone over the different brands and styles of violin cases available, but how do you know which one is best suited for your specific instrument? Here are a few tips to help you:

Seek out expert guidance

The first step in finding the ideal violin case is to seek expert guidance from experienced violinists or music store professionals. They have years of experience working with different types of instruments and can provide valuable insights into selecting the best case for your violin. Your Trala teacher can help you find the perfect case for your violin.

Consider size, preferences, and other important factors

A great violin case should be sturdy, lightweight, and offer ample protection for your instrument. So you’ll need to take into account your:

• Violin size: Ensure you choose a case that fits your violin perfectly to avoid damage or accidents. Check the case dimensions and compare them to your instrument before purchasing.
• Level of protection needed: How often do you travel with your instrument, and what kind of environment do you usually carry it in? If you frequently travel or experience extreme weather conditions, invest in a case that offers temperature and humidity control systems.
• Budget: Violin cases can range from affordable to high-end luxury options. While a quality case is essential for your instrument's safety, it's important to set a budget and stick to it when selecting a case. Consider the features you need and look for cases within your budget that offer those features.
• Materials: The most common case materials are wood, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and foam. Each material offers a different level of protection, durability, and weight. Consider your travel habits and the level of protection you need to select the most suitable material for your new case.
• Personal preferences: Ultimately, your choice of case should also align with your personal preferences and style. Do you prefer a traditional or a sleek, modern look? Think about what matters to you and choose a case that reflects your personality.

Accommodate any extra accessories

Extra accessories, such as shoulder rests, rosin, and extra strings, are essential for a violinist. When selecting a case, choose one with ample storage compartments and pockets to keep these accessories organized and easily accessible. This will save you the hassle of carrying multiple bags or forgetting essential items when traveling.

Ensure a proper fit

A properly fitting case will keep your violin from moving around too much and minimize the risk of damage. Test out the case with your violin before purchasing it to ensure a snug and secure fit. It should also be comfortable to carry and easy to open and close.

Invest in quality from the start

Investing in a high-quality case from the start will safeguard your violin for years to come and help you avoid frequent repairs or replacements. Accidental damage or wear and tear is inevitable, but a good case can significantly reduce the risk.

Get personalized violin case recommendations from a Trala teacher

Our trained, experienced Trala teachers can help you find the perfect case for your instrument. They’ll consider your individual needs and preferences to provide personalized recommendations that cater to your playing style, budget, and travel habits. 

Plus, with Trala's convenient online learning platform, you can easily connect with a teacher and get expert guidance from anywhere in the world.

Get matched with an expert Trala teacher and take your first lesson today.