Learning to Play the Violin in Easy Steps

By Aaron Piertzen

Learning to play the violin can be one of the most challenging goals that you undertake. Although the violin is a beautiful instrument with lovely tone, it can be an extraordinarily difficult instrument to master. Here are some tips, however, that can get you started.

While the violin is most notably used in classical music, it has a place in all genres of music, making it a very versatile instrument. When used in an orchestra, it is usually the main instrument used for the melody.

Finding a quiet place where you can concentrate without being interrupted is one of the first things that you need to do when learning to play the violin. A straight back chair, as well as a music stand to hold your sheet music, are two very good things to include in this space.

Using one of your one of your thumbs, pluck each string in order to hear its pitch and to check its tension. If you're just starting out, you might want to think about using a piano or a pitch pipe to tune the instrument to G-D-A-E.

After that, at the place where the fingerboard and neck extend out from the instrument, enclose your left hand around the body. Position the violin and the chin rest, the black part of the violin, under your chin. Don't forget to bring your left shoulder over so that it is located under the chin rest. This will help support you.

Now, arrange your right thumb at the corner of the fingerboard, close to the bridge. Your index finger should be situated on top of the "G" string. With just a little bit of pressure, your finger should then land on the "D" string. This is what is called "plucking."

Plus the "G" string 4 times not using your fingernails. Work on creating a rhythm. Using the same method, do the same thing with the "D", "A", and "E" strings. Once you get familiar with this, mix up the order while still keeping it slow.

Now you are probably ready to try out the bow. Position your right thumb on the inside of the bow with your three middle fingers on the outside. Your pinkie should be near the adjustment screw, on top. It is also important to let your index finger relax on top of the bow stick.

Using some pressure, position the bow hair on top of the "G" string. Draw a straight line until you reach the end and then go in the opposite direction. You should do this slowly in the beginning to get the feel of it.

These are the fundamental steps in learning to play the violin. Naturally, it does get more complex after this. Still, even though you might find it hard to master at first, don't forget to have patience and continuing to practice. The more you play, the more you will learn how much pressure to apply and how to make balanced rhythms. - 30404

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