Violin Lessons

The violin has always been associated with class, virtuosity and sentimentality. It sounds great in every music genre. The sound of a well tuned violin, played by a skilled violinist is heavenly and beautiful. It is with violin lessons that the student will develop properly.

Learning to play the violin takes time. Students must be patient and give themselves the time necessary to learn the instrument. It will be at least 6 months before they can play a few tunes.

For the younger student, ages 5-9 or so who are taking lessons in violin, it may take longer to complete a short selection for violin however it's a great idea to start violin lessons as a young child and "grow up" with it. The younger child can take more time to develop his/her rhythm, ear training technique and theory and so it will all the more be a part of the developing student.

Violin lessons include correct positioning of the bow, the instrument and the hands, as well as proper bowing and playing technique, including intonation.

Learning to hold the violin is one of the most difficult lessons to be learned. Holding the bow correctly is also essential. Students should be made aware of the beautiful voice or tone of the violin. When the student understands the difference of the tone as it relates to pressure and stress, ease and relaxation, it helps him learn why control is so important.

Our violin teachers believe the violin should become an extension of the student's body.

Students should practice at least 30 minutes a day 5 to 7 days a week. Students under the age of 10-12 may practice 10 minutes to start, then move up to 15, then 20.

Practicing the violin must be done mindfully, and not done as a series of thoughtless repetitions. Learning technique is a training of the memory, mind, emotions and spirit and body.

Practice must be done slowly and with concentration in order to play it correctly the first time. Practicing slowly and mindfully at first is the key to success in learning new material.

If the student starts to lose focus, he must take a break and return after his mind has relaxed.

Last of all, it is up to the violin teachers to be patient and a good communicators who are able to engage the student's attention with interesting teaching methods and lesson plans.