When you look at a violin, the first thing you'll probably notice is that it's made of wood, so why is it called a string instrument? This is because the hollow, wooden bodies of stringed instruments allow sound to vibrate within them, but the part of the instrument that makes the sound are the strings! The strings are the largest family of instruments in the orchestra and they come in four sizes: the violin, which is the smallest, viola, cello, and the biggest, the double bass (bass is pronounced "base," as in "baseball.") The smaller instruments, the violin and viola, make higher-pitched sounds, while the larger cello and double bass produce low rich sounds. They are all similarly shaped, with curvy wooden bodies and wooden necks. The strings stretch over the body and neck and attach to small decorative heads, where they are tuned with small tuning pegs.
Stringed instrument are played most often by drawing a bow across the strings. The handle of the bow is made of wood and the strings of the bow are actually horsehair from horses' tails! Sometimes the musicians will use their fingers to pluck the strings (this is called “pizzicato”), and occasionally they will turn the bow upside down and play the strings with the wooden handle (called “col legno”).
What to Expect From Lessons:
At Presto Music, our violin instructors are dedicated to unlocking the potential virtuoso in each of our students. Stringed instruments, especially the violin, pose a significant learning challenge due to their reliance on small muscle conditioning and muscle memory. Daily dedicated practice is essential for success, but the rewards of mastering them are unparalleled in expressiveness and musicality. Because of this, violin is one of our most popular instrumental lessons! Our lessons cater to beginners and advanced players alike, focusing on technique enhancement, intonation mastery, scale proficiency, sight-reading skills, and repertoire development for both solo and ensemble performances.
Many of our students choose to complement their private lessons with participation in school orchestras to enhance both their solo and ensemble playing skills. Our expert teachers customize lessons to meet the unique needs of each student, whether focusing on classical music, or exploring the world of fiddle playing. Join us at Presto Music and Performing Arts to begin your musical journey today!
Common Questions About Violin Lessons
Do I need an expensive instrument to get started?
When considering a stringed instrument for beginners, it's essential to invest wisely. While entry-level instruments may still cost several hundred dollars, be cautious of low-cost options available online. These instruments often suffer from poor construction, make tuning a constant battle, struggle to stay in tune, and can be incorrectly measured. These frustrations can hinder a student's progress and enjoyment, potentially leading to giving up altogether. To provide a smoother learning experience, we recommend renting your stringed instrument for the initial months. This allows you to start on a quality student-level instrument, ensuring a more enjoyable introduction to playing. Once you've experienced the joy of playing and confirmed your commitment, you can confidently choose a more expensive instrument if desired. For a list of local music stores that offer stringed instruments for rent, feel free to contact us!
What size instrument do I need when first starting out?
All stringed instruments are made in various sizes to accommodate different ages. Optimal learning and muscle memory development can only occur when the instrument fits the player correctly. Being properly fitted for an instrument is essential before making a selection. Contact us for a list of local recommendations to help you find the correctly sized instrument!
At what age can a child start taking string instrument/violin lessons?
The suitability of stringed instruments for a child often hinges on their individual characteristics. These instruments demand significant attention to detail, precise coordination between the right and left sides of the body, and rigorous muscle conditioning. A child who exhibits strong focus and a natural inclination for detail may thrive when beginning on a stringed instrument. This can foster not only their musical skills but also their ability to concentrate and engage deeply with the learning process. Conversely, a more energetic child might find it challenging to maintain the level of focus string instruments require. In such cases, starting with an easier instrument can provide a more suitable foundation! This approach allows the child to cultivate good practice habits and develop their musical abilities without becoming overwhelmed. As they build their skills and attention span, transitioning to a stringed instrument can be a rewarding next step!
What’s the difference between a violin and a fiddle?
Absolutely nothing. Same instrument, different style of music!
How often should I practice?
Stringed instrument students need regular practice to build skills and enjoy music.
Beginners and Young Children: New learners should practice for 15 to 25 minutes daily. This short time helps them develop a routine without feeling overwhelmed.
Intermediate Students: As they improve, practice should increase to at least 45 minutes to an hour each day. This helps them strengthen techniques and learn more complex pieces.
Advanced Students: Experienced players often practice several hours a day. This intense schedule is vital for honing their skills, tackling challenging pieces, and preparing for performances.
By practicing consistently based on their level, students will see great progress and a deeper love for their instrument.
Tuition at Presto Music Academy
30 Minutes
$45
(recommended for beginning/young students)
45 Minutes
$60
(recommended for intermediate and adult students)
60 Minutes
$75
(Recommended for advanced and adult students)