#beginner violinist

[asexual-amanita]

This is my electric violin, Cassius! I got him a couple months ago, but forgot to post a picture of him! I love how smooth and rich he sounds.

[rangerofthesouth]

List of things I did today as proof that I didn't waste my day

8 laps in the pool...guess who can feel her triceps?

Half an hour of violin practice. Practiced the A major scale on the A and E strings and played twinkle twinkle little star with some ease

Sent in a job application

Edited my CV

Made a polymer whale

Played some piano

Started reading a new book

All in all...I don't think I did too bad today

.well done me...shower time now because the chlorine is making me itch

[phantomonabudget]

I want to learn how to play the violin, but I am an adult. Do you think it is possible? What would you recomend for a beginner?

As an adult beginner violinist, I know it’s absolutely possible!  Here are some very good things to do as a beginner:

1.  Find a good teacher!  Some people think it’s possible to teach themselves to play violin, but as an accomplished pianist/clarinetist, I would not be anywhere near where I am now if I didn’t have a teacher.  The violin is a highly nuanced instrument and in my opinion, it’s impossible to teach yourself (to play well, anyway...anyone can scratch out some tunes on their own).  A knowledgeable teacher will be able to get you started off with correct technique, a plan that will help build your confidence, and can correct minor issues before they become huge problems.  Online lessons are okay if you don’t have any good teachers near you, but I highly recommend having in-person lessons at least for the first few months (COVID-19 restrictions allowing, of course).  It’s easier to demonstrate and correct technique issues in person, trust me. If you go to your local luthier (violin maker) shop, they should have a list of local teachers and you just start calling or emailing to see who is available and what sort of style you want to learn (classical violin?  Fiddle/folk music?  etc).  Most luthier websites usually have a link to local violin/fiddle teachers as well.  Definitely do get the advice of the luthier when it comes to looking for a good, qualified teacher.  They know everyone.

2.  DO NOT BUY A VIOLIN OFF AMAZON.  Do. Not.  There are a lot of “violin shaped objects” (VSOs) on Amazon and other online resources that are poor excuses for violins (poor quality materials, bad mass assembly, etc).  While the price tags are attractive, VSOs will make it more difficult for you to learn how to play.  They are more difficult to get a good sound out of, which can destroy your confidence.  As you progress, they will start holding you back pretty quickly, which only prevents you from enjoying the practicing.

3.  Do consider renting a quality instrument before you buy.  This isn’t completely necessary, but many luthiers will have a rent-to-buy option (violin, bow, case, whole outfit).  Renting a violin for a few months is a great idea because you can try it out and see if you’re going to like the whole violin thing (the practice, the lessons, the frustration, the highs and lows) before you fully commit to an instrument.  Discover it’s not for you?  That’s ok, just turn the violin back in and walk away.  You can usually rent a good quality student violin for not much money, and if you end up loving it and can apply that rental equity toward the purchase price, that’s a good deal!  Most decent student violins run from $300-800.  You certainly don’t need an $800 violin to start, but that luthier should have something affordable and a good, playable quality that you will enjoy.  They will also be able to set you up with the whole outfit (bow, case, rosin, accessories) and show you exactly what to do with each of those items.  Local luthiers are gold and definitely are worthy of your support.

4.  It’s a marathon, not a sprint.  Embrace the journey.  Many feel that it takes several years to get just to a “proficient” level as a violinist.  If you’re hoping to play concertos or some slick fiddle tunes in a matter of months, or even two years, you’re looking at the wrong hobby.  If you’re willing to invest a couple years into this and learn to enjoy the work and the journey along the way, you’ll love this.  If you’re in a hurry to get to a certain level, you’re bound to be frustrated and quit.

5.  Have realistic expectations.  Is it too late to learn violin as an adult?  Heck no!!  Is it too late to become a world-renown concert soloist?  Probably.  I’ve seen some fellow adult beginners achieve some very impressive levels in only a few years, but if you’re expecting to make this a profession at this point, you’re too late.  However, there’s plenty of time to learn and get to a point where you enjoy playing the instrument, maybe join an amateur orchestra or group and enjoy some jam sessions.  Know why you’re doing this, and maintain realistic expectations on your violin journey.

6.  You will sound bad at first.  It’s okay.  Trust me, everyone sounds TERRIBLE at first and it’s fine!  Go slow, don’t put too much pressure on yourself, and celebrate those little wins!

7.  Maintain a regular practice schedule.  There’s a certain comfort that comes from a routine.  Most people say that practicing an hour (or more) a day whenever possible is best (have a rest day each week).  But even if an hour isn’t possible, even 20 minutes a day is better than nothing.  Make practice happen whenever you can, and you’ll see results!

8.  Find what works for you.  With the help of a teacher and/or luthier, you should be able to find an arrangement/setup for your violin that fits you best.  If you have a longer neck, you will probably need a shoulder rest and/or a higher chinrest to prevent an uncomfortable position for you when holding the violin.  For others, shoulder rests make things worse, and some people prefer certain shaped chinrests over others.  This takes time to figure out and your preferences may change as you go.  If you feel tension in your neck/shoulder/arm, it might be a technique problem or you may need to change something in your set up (or both).  Experienced help will assist you in determining what will ultimately work best so that you are comfortable and happy when playing.

9.  Stay positive!  This is a very challenging but super rewarding endeavor!  As I said above, celebrate little wins, little improvements.  Nailed a smooth bow change?  Finally kept the bow straight?  Played your first scale in tune?  Awesome!!  Make those little wins mean a lot because you will have frustrating practices and lessons, and it’s good to have some victories to celebrate.  :)

10.  HAVE FUN!  I’m having a blast, this has been a dream of mine for a long time and I’m finally pursuing it.  I hope if you decide to try it that you enjoy the ride!

Feel free to message me back if you have additional questions.  If you tell me more about your musical experience I can offer more tailored advice too.  Good luck and let me know if you decide to give it a shot!  :)

[asexual-amanita]

So, I have a violin solo that I forgot about until yesterday… and I now have less than 4 days to practice Swallowtail Jig before I preform in front of a live audience. Wish me luck cause I’m gonna need it 🤦‍♂️

[asexual-amanita]

I know you played the violin, I git to ask what’s your favorite song to play on the violin.?

Generally, Irish fiddle tunes are my favourite to play. My current favourite is Swallowtail Jig.

[asexual-amanita]

How long have you been playing violin for? :)

I’ve been playing for around 6 years I think, though I’m not at the same level as other people who’ve played for 6 years. My conditions often stop me from doing daily tasks, let alone hobbies, but I do my best. Even though I’m not too great at violin, I hugely enjoy it. Whenever I have a lesson with my teacher it feels like the mental illness, like, melts out of me, and it can just be me and my music.

This is my violin, Eulalie, on her stand.

[phantomonabudget]

Found a great violin shop/luthier nearby so guess what Imma feel like when I walk through their door this weekend

Might feel like this:

Or maybe this:

It’s the not-knowing that makes it exciting.

[phantomonabudget]

When you remember that music is a great and wonderful art form and you should go practice...