The violin is a third most popular instrument in the world. It is an incredible instrument, versatile in all different genres of music, portable and easy to transport. The violin is capable of producing beautiful pure tone, and it might be argued has perhaps the best potential for expression and beauty of tone among the instruments. Violin lessons for kids come with definite challenges, especially in beginning the violin, and a parent should be prepared for the fact that it may take two to three months before a pleasant sound is produced. Because the violin involves coordination between both hands sometimes in a counter-intuitive way, it is very helpful for the student to break down the elements of the violin in two separate pieces. For example, the left hand should be practiced alone until it becomes comfortable. Then the Bow hand, (generally the right), should be practiced to produce as smooth and consistent sound. This is challenging because the student must draw the bow along the strings with an even pressure and weight, something requiring a lot of coordination from a young child.
Violin lessons for kids; what to expect
As we mentioned, it may take some time to produce good sound. That said a beginning violin student will be able to rather quickly play some of the basic songs. Perhaps one of the easiest songs to begin is Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. The first four notes of this famous song can be played on the G & D string of the violin without any need for using the fingers. This makes it a very natural and simple starting point. Unlike other instruments like the piano, the students ear must develop along with their ability to coordinate. The violin, unlike the piano doesn’t sound good unless the student knows what playing in tune sounds like. For this reason, the violin it could be argued is a better choice for building ear training skills.
Advantages of the violin
- Portability, very easy to take on trips for practicing or to bring along to school or other events.
- Relatively inexpensive, by comparison to the cello and other string instruments or to the piano.
- A very social instrument, violin is often best in an ensemble, this social element can really make the instrument fun. Students May participate in orchestras, string quartets, jazz bands, and even pop groups.
- A little easier to learn to read, especially in the beginning, unlike an instrument like piano, the violin only plays one or two notes at a time.
- Number of genres. The violin has been used in almost every style of music. Because of this a student can really experiment with any musical style using this instrument.
- Challenges of the violin
Takes time and patience to produce a beautiful tone. Unlike the piano, which has more instant gratification. - Can be frustrating to coordinate between the hands, and for young children difficult to hold for long periods.
- Can be less fulfilling as a solo instrument then say the piano, which is capable I’ve playing the harmonies and Melodies of a song. Some children may find that playing with a group is much funner than playing alone.
When to start violin lessons for kids?
This is a difficult question to answer, and something that many parents call and ask us. It’s difficult to answer because certain kids find it easier to pick up the violin than others. Generally, the temperament of the child that is more successful in starting the instrument, is a more focused child. We have seen kids starting at age 4 and doing very well. However, this may not work for everyone. The best way is to enroll in classes for a couple of months, And see how things go.
Some common questions:
How much are violin lessons?
Violin lessons for kids can range between 60 to 90 per hour depending on the city. Here at Angeles Academy, our cost is around eighty four per hour.
Does price matter when picking a violin Studio?
Absolutely. While we look for the best prices day-to-day for products and services, one-on-one instruction is a little different. Sometimes going with the lowest cost is not the best idea. Generally the higher-priced instructor come with more experience talent for teaching and credentials.
How do I know if my child is making progress on the violin?
This is a great question that we get frequently.
The crucial matter is usually creating habitual practicing habits. This is something encouraged by the instructor, but really enforced by the habits of the family. Progress can be slow at first, and it’s usually a good idea 2 try to improve things rather than quitting. Quitting is a generally bad habit for kids to get into when they encounter obstacles. We advised that parents discuss these matters and Trust the instructor. As to how the progress is going.
Is Suzuki the best way to begin violin?
Violin lessons for kids can come in many different methods. Suzuki is one that has been very successful, however, this does not mean that other methods of teaching are not equally as effective. It’s best to get educated and also talked with the instructor about what message might be best. Typically and experience instructor will already have clear ideas of what the best method would be for your child.
How much are violins?
Violins can range between $150 up into the thousands. They also are available for rent for a round 25 to $30 per month. For a parent starting their child for the first time, it is sometimes best to rent a violin and give a three-month trial period to see how things go. Following this, if goals are met, perhaps a violin purchase may be used as an incentive for additional practicing in progress. It’s always best to ask a school or your violin instructor to help you pick out a good instrument. It can be very challenging for parents to assess the value of an instrument without any backgrounds in music.
Resources
Violin history, techniques, and more information.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Violin
Interested in another instrument? Read related articles like this one, about when your child should begin
piano lessons.
https://angelesacademyofmusic.com/when-should-your-child-begin-piano-lessons/