Do you wish to become a violinist? Is your passion for music screaming for an outlet? We don’t blame you because few things in life are as exquisite as the sound of a violin. However, you must be prepared before you start playing this instrument. So, on that note, here’s what you need to know before you learn to play the violin.
It Won’t Sound the Way You Imagined
Those movie soundtracks with violins and the big orchestra playing that beautiful music are two of the main reasons why so many want to give learning the violin a go. However, it’s important to note that your expectations will not be met as it won’t sound the way you imagined it would, at least not at first. Don’t fret, though, as it is all part and parcel of learning this incredible instrument. That scratchy sound will irritate you for a while, and that airy tune you’re hoping for will take its time to develop. You have to find the right posture that bowed instruments require. So, hang in there, and eventually, you’ll find your sound.
It Will Take Time, and It’s Not Easy
As mentioned above, it will be a little uncomfortable for a while, and bowed instruments are always difficult to get the hang of. But as long as you are consistent and determined, you’ll get used to the positioning and playing will get easier. It takes quite a significant amount of time to get used to it as you go through the scratching phase, followed by the buzzing next to your ear; but, if you can make it through and remain motivated, you will soon be playing beautiful tunes. With the violin so close to your ear, you are going to still hear a scratchy sound from time to time, but the people around you listening will only hear the wonderful melody.
You Must Work to Maintain Your Violin
As any violinist will tell you, your violin needs tender love and care. The good news is that the effort you have to put into maintaining the upkeep of your violin will become habitual. Tightening the bow and applying the rosin – a small object that is applied over the hair of the bow – will be taught to you by your music teacher. You will also learn how to clean your violin and change the strings and bow hair.
With the amount of work needed to maintain your instrument, it’s vital that you buy a violin in good condition. Buying poor quality is only going to make maintaining it harder. Plus, each violin is different, and you will want one tailored to suit you and your style. That is why it’s important to look at the different violin brand reviews available online to find the one that best suits you, and make sure that the quality is top-notch to ensure the instrument will last for a long time. The level a musical student is at, whether a beginner, intermediate or advanced level, should be considered when purchasing the appropriate violin.
Don’t Get Discouraged
If you are an adult student learning to play the violin, you will encounter young children who are already at an advanced level. It can be very easy to compare yourself to others and worry about how long it will take you to perfect your playing. However, it is essential that you do not get discouraged and allow yourself to progress at your own pace. Violin is not an easy instrument to learn, and it’s unfair to compare yourself to musicians who have been playing for longer. Also, the younger the musician, the easier it is for them to find the right posture for playing. Just keep going, focus on your progress, and it will soon get easier.
You Would Benefit from Joining a Violin Community
We only see professional violinists playing away; we never see the hard work and dedication they have applied. Some violinists even go deaf in one ear due to the noise being so close to it. So, it is highly recommended that you join a violin community near you or online. That way, you can talk to other beginners and find that you are all going through the same thing while learning how to master this beautiful instrument. You will find comfort and confidence with a community cheering you on.
Learning to play the violin is one of the most rewarding experiences. All the work and effort you put into this instrument will be the reason you play so beautifully. So, don’t get discouraged and appreciate the journey. You’ll soon find out just how unique and special this talent truly is.
