There are several things you will need for the first violin lesson. The first is, of course, a violin. I usually recommend renting an instrument initially to make sure the violin is the instrument for you. There are many local music stores from which you can rent instruments. As soon as you are sure that you will be continuing lessons, I recommend buying an instrument. There are several mail order options and also an excellent local fine violin shop. The advantage of buying a violin in a local shop is the ability to try out several different instruments while in the shop. Violins come in different sizes: arm length which determines what size violin you will need. Any shop which sells and/or rents instruments will be able to tell you what size instrument you need by taking a measurement. You will also need a shoulder rest. A shoulder rest attaches to the bottom of the violin as support to hold the violin without neck strain. Again there are options for buying these via mail order or local shops. The last thing you will need is a music stand. A folding portable music stand is more than adequate to begin. Please refer to the links page of this site for local and mail order options for instruments and accessories.