Just starting to learn violin; need advice.

Category: Jam Session

Post 1 by OceanDream (An Ocean of Thoughts) on Tuesday, 05-Jun-2012 8:11:24

Hey all,

I've been interested in learning to play the violin ever since I can remember, but I was fortunate enough recently to acquire one. I've gotten a few little tips and tricks from friends and people at the music store, but do any of you have suggestions getting started? I know professional lessons are most likely my best option, but is there anything I should, or shouldn't do while I try to find a teacher? is there anything I can work on in the meantime to help me get started? I'm really eager, and I just can't wait. Even if there are some online tutorials or lessons anyone knows about, I'd love to hear about them. Once again, I know they won't help me like a professional teacher will, but they're something to start with at least.

Post 2 by BigDogDaddy (Help me, I'm stuck to my chair!) on Tuesday, 05-Jun-2012 9:46:40

youtube is your friend. I've found some nice lessons on there before to help with an instrument. Also, library of congress will often have recordings from yester year on playing an instrument. I got some for the mandolyn from them about 3 years ago. Guitarbyear.com usually he's got lessons on various string instruments.

Post 3 by Reyami (I've broken five thousand! any more awards going?) on Wednesday, 07-Nov-2012 4:41:31

Hi there. I've been a violinist since I was eleven. It's been several months since this topic was started. If you'd like, I can try to give you some pointers over Skype. it's easier for me to try to describe concepts like bow hold via voice rather than in writing. The hardest thing to master is playing on one string at a time. feel free to PM me for details. have a great day.

Post 4 by Remy (I've now got the silver prolific poster award! wahoo!) on Wednesday, 07-Nov-2012 13:14:45

I have no advice. But as someone who is currently self-teaching himself to play the piano, I have to say it never hurts to have someone, be it in person or online, who knows what they're doing. I don't, and thus my progression is extremely slow. I think it's great you're learning this; it's a wonderful instrument.

Post 5 by booklover256 (Veteran Zoner) on Wednesday, 07-Nov-2012 17:18:57

Hi,
I would be interested in doing skype lessons if you would like. Private message me or add me on skype. I have been playing for years, had all kind of training, and love to help.

Post 6 by Thunderstorm (HotIndian!) on Thursday, 08-Nov-2012 8:18:25

I'm a violinist as well. I played in several publick orchestras and that was a decade before. Even though I'm not interested participating in publick programs now, I do have a plan to continue my practice again.

As per that instrument, it'd be tough at the beginning. But once you understand the concept, that could be the easiest instrument for playing I'm sure. Basically, I've studied indian karnatic music. but now, since the trend is changing, many are learning western in India as well.

It has four strings. namely, g, d, a, e. that is from your left to right.

G string will give you low tone, and d string will give you bit higher likewise. I like playing with e string a lots.

Initially, whenever you are practicing, try to bow straight. that's the main thing. you may be hearing double string sound, sometimes, you may feel this is not the instrument which you can learn. Don't get disappointed. I got fed up playing this instrument at the beginning. but my guru was very polite and he taught me with patiency and he asked me to practice a lots.

Try to bow in one string first. If you're getting success with that, touch that string with your index finger and feel the change in the tone.

Hope you'll become a very good violinist.

All the best.

Raaj.

Post 7 by CSection (Out standing in my field.) on Thursday, 08-Nov-2012 9:42:27

Hi guys,

I've just bought my first violin, and i'm also looking to learn. I need to get it fixed up first, but after that i'll try and drag myself away from all my other instruments and give it a go.
If anyone finds any good online lessons please let me know.

Post 8 by OceanDream (An Ocean of Thoughts) on Thursday, 08-Nov-2012 10:36:12

Hey guys.

thanks so much for the advice. every little bit helps. I'm having a friend coming over soon who's also been playing for years, so I'm really excited to learn a few pointers. I'm definitely not turning down Skype lessons, though. expect to hear from me soon! *smiles*

Post 9 by booklover256 (Veteran Zoner) on Thursday, 08-Nov-2012 19:30:24

Seasection, I would be glad to offer you skype lessons as well. There are limitations over skype, but it is better than nothing. Also, I can give blindy tips that I'm sure a local teacher could not.
And, Oceandream, whenever you want. I'm usually around in one form or another.