So, you want to play a string instrument?

Take a look at the options

The violin is the smallest of the string family. It has been

around since about 1550 in Italy. They range in size from
about 14-23 and have 4 strings (g, e, a, and d) with about a
4-octave range. For renting or buying, it is best to look local
so that the player can try out instruments. The Complete
String Guide: Standards, Programs, Purchase, and Maintenance
is also a helpful tool when shopping for a violin.

Slightly larger and older than the violin is the viola. The viola
has been around since about 1530, but unlike the violin, the
viola is still undergoing changes to help it reach acoustical
perfection. They range from about 21-27 and have 4
strings (c, g, d, and a) with about a 3-octave range. As with
the violin, for renting or buying, it is best to look local so
that the player can try out instruments. The Complete String
Guide: Standards, Programs, Purchase, and Maintenance is
also helpful.

The origins of the cello are hard to trace, but it is

believed that the earliest sign of existence was from
1527. The cello ranges from about 26-48 and has 4
strings (c, g, d, and a) with a 4-octave range. The same
goes for renting or purchasing a cello as with violins
and violas.

The origins of the double bass are quite debated, but

the instrument became popular in the 1650s when they
found a way to make it smaller. It ranges from about
61-74 and has 4 strings (e, a, d, and g) with a range
of about 3 octaves. The same goes for renting or
purchasing a double bass as with violins and violas.
The parts of a string instrument:
It is important for students to know the
parts of their instrument so that they are
able to clearly identify where an issue is if
there ever is one. Note: on a cello or
bass, the chin rest is not there. In its place
would be the endpin for resting on the
ground.

Instrument Care:

String instruments need to be cared for just like any other instrument. Here are some of the most
important things to have in order to care for these instruments:
New strings (these will break or stop tuning sometimes and will need to be replaced)
Rosin (make sure you get the correct instrument rosin, this will be used on your bow to help
friction)
A cloth for wiping down the strings
A humidifier to keep the wood from cracking
Endpin holders (for cellos and basses to keep them from scratching floors)
Chin rest and shoulder rest (for violins and violas)