Hammond Music

For young children learning to play the violin, a 1/10 violin is an excellent option. A violin is designed to fit between the side of the neck and the palm of the hand. A fractional sized instrument, as the smaller versions are often called, allows a child to learn the necessary fingering along the length of the neck, which helps to encourage a child’s desire to learn. For many people, however, sizing is such a confusing issue that they choose to simply purchase whatever the salesperson tells them to get, which may not always be the best option.

Violins come in a variety of sizes, from the 1/16 violin to the full-size, or 4/4 violin, to the 1/10 violin, which is in between. Although the sizes look like fractions, the numbers do not represent the physical dimensions of violins. Instead, the numbers indicate a specific size, as well as how that size relates to other sizes. Generally, a full-size body measures 14 inches without the neck, a 3/4-size body measures 13 inches, and a 1/2-size body measures about 12 inches.

Because of the differences between full-sized and fractionally sized instruments, buying a 1/10 violin is a slightly different experience. Because the instruments are smaller in size, they provide less amplification of the strings. As a result, fractional sized violins tend to produce a lower quality sound than 4/4 violins in the same price range. Inexpensive models of smaller instruments are excellent for learning fingering and chords, as well as for developing the muscle memory necessary for playing well. Unfortunately, the flaws in the sound will become apparent when it is actually played, making it essential to replace the instrument with a more expensive model that provides better sound. As a result, it is less expensive to buy a better model than to buy a cheap one and replace it after a few months.

Schools for learning to play the violin have existed for at least five centuries. Over time, the instrument has evolved into its modern form, and violin makers behind that evolution have also recognized the need to make instruments to fit a child’s reach. A 1/10 violin, as well as other fractional sizes, make it possible for a child to play all of the notes, helping prevent the frustration in learning that comes with not being able to play what they want. While not all fractional sized instruments produce a quality sound, taking your time when purchasing one can help ensure that the violin plays well for many years.

It has become one of the most popular and most played instruments in the world for spontaneous music and formal compositions.  It is a dream for a lot of people to learn how to play the violin. Learning to play the violin is an incredibly gratifying and very fulfilling euphonic pastime which is straightforward to learn once you have  the devotion and the passion which are needed to conquer all the intricacies of playing this one-of-a-kind musical instrument.

If you believe that you have the talent and the determination to learn the discipline, as well as the time to practice religiously, then you have no reason not to go on and pursue your dream. There are a lot of avenues on how you can learn to play the violin by yourself.  You can concentrate on what style you feel is perfect for you.  The internet can provide you with different techniques and procedures on how to play violin.  Likewise, watching videos of renowned violinists will be a great help. Although you may find it difficult in the beginning, and a bit awkward, after some practice you should be able to make headway and create some beautiful music with your violin.

Before you can begin your actual lesson you need to have a violin.  You have two options to consider.  If you truly feel that the violin is the ideal instrument and you really intend to excel with this type of instrument, it would be wise to invest and buy yourself a violin. Keep in mind that there are things to consider when purchasing a violin. Take someone with you who can also play, as well as listen. Be sure the instrument is properly set up and examine the wood that the violin is made of.  Italian violins are known to be among the best in the world because violin making remains less commercialized there. You should also consider the price you are willing to pay. The price may not represent the quality, especially in the case of a used violin. Finally, play a variety of violins and make your evaluation in a stress free, no pressure setting.  However, if you are not absolutely certain that the violin is the ideal instrument for you to learn, then borrowing or renting one is your best option.

In order to pursue your passion, you will need to invest in a bow and a digital tuner. Before you get started with your lessons and training, it is your primary concern as a beginner to study and develop the proper posture while playing the violin.  Be aware of the proper sitting position and the way you hold your violin. For this purpose, you can refer to instructional manuals or use online resources and videos to familiarize yourself with proper posture and correct positioning of your instrument. However, developing good posture is not enough, it should be maintained every time you sit and play the violin. Exert extra effort to constantly check and compare your posture with visual aids.

Once you have the posture set, then start plucking the strings with your fingers, so you will know just how they should sound. As the sound of the strings becomes ingrained in your mind, you will want to add the sound of the bow as it resonates against each string. Through these simple exercises, you will immediately begin to feel the music within you want to come out. It is now time to get serious about your lessons!

    Remember you are learning your lessons all by yourself. Therefore, self discipline will play a vital role in your success. You should set your training and skill development schedule and follow it religiously. Daily practice is a must and there is no substitute for regular practice if you really intend to excel in playing your violin.  Eventually you will enjoy listening to your own music and then share the gift of music to others.

Below are my top 5 Violin Concertos in no particular order. I don’t wish this to be taken as a difinitive list to end all lists. It is merely my thoughts as they stand today. Who knows, tomorrow they may be different!

Number 1 by L van Beethoven, for Violin and orchestra in D Major, opus 61, written 1806.”The Gentle Giant” was a piece of music made of simple materials but with immense character and structure. Classic of Beethoven he spins a small idea into masses of work. The 5 beat element is almost everywhere in movement 1 demonstrating this skill with ease and class. 

Number 2 by J Brahms, Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in D Major, Opus 77, written 1878.
“Depth with Romanticism”. He must have been in love with someone when he wrote this one

Number 3 – Jean Sibelius, Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in D Minor, Opus 47, written in 1903.
“Emotional, majestic, and exciting.” Two outer movements, rough and rugged in nature are completely contrasted by the beauty of the slow middle movement. Which only has one long melodic line, repeated twice.

Number 4 – Peter Tchaikovsky, Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in D Major, Opus 35, written in 1878.
“A true blockbuster.” Probably the most popular violin concerto ever written, and with good reason. Written in a burst of happy inspiration, an audience favourite for over 125 years, and this shows no signs of going anywhere.

Number 5 – Edward Elgar, Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in B Minor, Opus 61, written in 1910.
“Victorian pomp and emotional sensitivity all rolled into one.” Maybe I like this so much because of its ‘Englishism’! The depth of emotion, genuine sentimentality, regal dignity, and consummate virtuosity inherent in this music is all perfectly combined.

This is by no means an official top 5. Just simply my own pickings of popular and prestigious concertos. As I write this, who knows, my own choice may have changed as it often does with all of my musical tastes and preferences. Can you ever have an all time favourite piece of music? Does it not need to change to suit your mood or even situation?

Take a look around the growing Violin Blog and resource and find the best place for online violin lessons.

Trying to figure out how to play violin for beginners and on your own can be extremely difficult and frustrating. It can be an uphill struggle for anyone but your musical education on the instrument need not end before it has begun. You can turn things around and make them fun with disciplined commitment and dedicated learning. Hundreds of thousands of musicians worldwide have sworn on the same commitment. They all ended up pursuing successful professional careers in music. This can apply just as easily to anyone interested in learning the violin but wishing to do it on his own. It is not always necessary to have a personal violin teacher when trying to master the instrument, as long as one has the patience, understanding and determination to succeed by being self taught.

If you intend to be self taught on the violin, one important question needs to be asked of you. How serious are you about doing it? Is your passion for the instrument strong or just something that is on the spur of the moment? A natural love for music is also necessary. It helps to increase tenfold the enjoyment of pursuing your musical education. Dealing with any obstacles will be less difficult if your passion and love for what you do is strong as it pushes you on.

While it is admirable to be self taught, do not exempt the fact that some form of sharing and learning from others would be necessary during your journey. Look for other violin players and learn from each other. Learning from others' experience could speed up your own progress. Inculcate their experiences in your own lessons and progression might result quicker. Do not neglect other resources such as picking up a learn violin dvd to gather more insight from other professionals.

Students with teachers often have an extra push or motivation from the latter. If you decide to teach yourself how to play the violin, then self discipline is something you must cultivate and master in order to fulfill your dreams. You must not shirk your responsibilities with regards to violin practice and more effort might be required compared to one who has a personal coach. You also need to examine your progress regularly so that areas of improvement can be determined and worked on.

Many self taught musicians neglect classical musical theory. Not only is it difficult to do so on your own, but it takes many hours of work to understand and memorize them. But it helps to make you a better violinist. It is also really necessary to know musical theory in order to become a better violin player as there is no alternative theory system for the instrument. There are many violin lessons online that can provide help in this area and you should turn to them for extra knowledge.

At the end of the day, whether you are enrolled in a music school or choose the self taught path, becoming proficient in the violin requires all your attention to detail, dedication, passion and commitment. There will be no limits to your progress as a violinist if you remain persistent and continue to grow your strengths. The journey will be long but fruitful till the end.