Virtual Violin: The Best Free and Pro Options to Play Violin on Your Computer
The violin is one of the most expressive instruments in the world — and with a virtual violin plugin, you can now capture that emotional depth directly inside your DAW or digital studio. Whether you’re scoring for film, layering cinematic textures, or composing a classical mockup, there are amazing free and premium options available. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best virtual violin tools you can use right now — all tested and selected for creators who want high-quality sound with a smooth workflow.
What Is a Virtual Violin and How Does It Work?
A virtual violin is a digital instrument designed to emulate the sound and performance of a real violin. It can be used inside a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) as a plugin, or as a standalone app. These instruments are usually based on high-resolution samples recorded from real violins, or on synthesis. Some are tailored for realistic performances, while others are more experimental or cinematic.
Best Free Virtual Violin Plugins and Libraries
LABS – Strings (Spitfire Audio)
A beautiful, lightweight orchestral ensemble — while it doesn’t offer solo violin, it’s perfect for layering, ambient strings, and cinematic textures.
https://labs.spitfireaudio.com
Virtual Playing Orchestra
A comprehensive orchestral library built from free sources, featuring both solo and ensemble violin sounds. SFZ-compatible.
https://virtualplaying.com
VSCO Community Edition (Versilian Studios)
A free orchestral toolkit with a solo violin, perfect for sketching and educational use. Works in SFZ format.
https://vis.versilstudios.com/vsco-community
DSK Strings & DSK Virtuoso
Lightweight and easy to use, these plugins include solo and ensemble strings. Great for quick mockups, less so for deep expression.
https://www.dskmusic.com
Sonatina Violin (Bigcat Instruments)
A solo violin extracted from the Sonatina Symphonic Orchestra. Simple, clean, and free to use — perfect for beginners.
https://bigcatinstruments.blogspot.com
Orchestral Tools – Layers (Free Version)
Offers lush orchestral textures and playable string sections with high production value. Not solo-violin focused, but excellent for arrangements.
https://www.orchestraltools.com/store/collections/layers
Strezov Sampling – Free Solo Violin
Occasionally available through their Freebies section — beautifully sampled and expressive. Check their site regularly.
https://www.strezov-sampling.com
Versilian Solo Violin Lite
A minimal but clean-sounding solo violin, perfect for entry-level projects. Works in SFZ players like Sforzando.
https://vis.versilstudios.com
Karoryfer Samples – Marie Ork Violin
A more experimental take on violin sampling, offering an expressive and character-rich sound. Great for indie or creative uses.
https://www.karoryfer.com/karoryfer-samples
Best Paid Virtual Violin Libraries (Pro-Level)
Joshua Bell Violin (Embertone)
An ultra-realistic solo violin, deeply sampled from the performances of world-renowned violinist Joshua Bell.
https://www.embertone.com/instruments/joshuabellviolin.php
Spitfire Solo Strings
A premium suite of solo string instruments with rich sampling depth and performance tools. Great for cinematic scores.
https://www.spitfireaudio.com
Cinematic Studio Solo Strings
Known for its emotional tone and fluid legato. A favorite among film and TV composers.
https://cinematicstudioseries.com
Use Virtual Violins Inside ONE Instrument®
With ONE Instrument®, you can load and organize all your favorite virtual violins — free or paid — in a single creative workspace. The platform lets you instantly preview violin libraries, layer multiple instruments for rich textures, manage your sample collection more easily, and use our integrated recorder to capture ideas quickly.
The Free version already supports third-party instruments via ONE Control, and the Plus version gives access to curated premium libraries and creative tools.
Whether you’re a professional composer or an aspiring creator, there’s a virtual violin for every style and budget. From realistic solo performances to creative string layers, these tools unlock new possibilities — and with ONE Instrument®, you can bring them all together in a fluid, intuitive environment built for creativity.