I guess it wasn't clear whether you meant check it in the hold, or ship it separately. Separate shipping is just a logistical hassle as symphonicman mentioned. As far as checked baggage, I know a lot of musicians who wouldn't let their instruments disappear into that system. Even on the base financial side of it, letting a bag worth thousands to tens of thousands of dollars float on a baggage carousel is crazy. I get mildly nervous when I check things of sentimental value. I can't imagine doing that with something that was my life and career.

But as I said, the idea that a professional violinist wouldn't pay more attention to baggage restrictions like BE is mind-boggling. For most musicians I know, policies regarding carrying on instruments are forefront in their mind when arranging travel.