The Old Violin or the New One
A free A1-level English story for language learners, readable online in 5 languages, with an option to listen via the free Storyteller app.
Mirela needs a violin for her lessons and must choose between her grandmother's old one and a new one.
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In September, Mirela started violin lessons. On day one, her teacher said, "You need a violin. Please get one this week."
Mirela had two choices. She could buy a new violin from a shop. Or she could use her grandmother's old one.
On Tuesday, she went to the shop. The new violin was bright and light. It cost eighty dollars. Mirela played one note. The sound was thin and sharp.
On Wednesday, she visited her grandmother. The old violin was in a case under the bed. It was brown and dark, with a small scratch.
Her grandmother gave it to her. "Try it," she said.
The old violin was heavier. After ten minutes, Mirela's arm hurt. But the sound was warm and deep. Her grandmother played one note. "It still sings," she said.
That night, Mirela could not sleep. She thought about the shiny violin. It was light and new, but it was not free. The old violin was free, and she loved its sound.
On Thursday morning, she called the shop. "I do not need the violin," she said. "Thank you."
At her next lesson, she opened the old case. "My arm will get strong," she told her teacher.
Her teacher smiled. Mirela lifted the old violin and played one long note.
