Carrie...found an Englehart at a local shop...a little better than student line. Bought for $350.00. Has some wear, but it's OK. My expectations af far less ambitious. I'll just add it to my collection and fool around with it occasionally. After nearly 50 years of playing upright, my hands are in such bad shape that gigging with bass of any kind is impossible. I always loved upright and playing with a bow. The bow I got for my KIDD is a good one...cost more than the cello. Make sure you get a good bow and some expert advice on that. Playing an inexpensive instrument and bow is kind of like learning to drive with an old junker car. Around here, you can rent a student line instrument for $17.50 per month. That's a good way to start. I'd look at a local university for an advanced student who would like to earn extra money giving beginner lessons.


good luck!


Russ

[This message has been edited by captain Russ (edited 10-16-2006).]