Monday, February 23, 2009

Violin Playing Tips That Develop Good Habits

By Ron Jackson

The violin can be a huge challenge for a beginner to pick up from the start. A smoother road can be created though. There are many ways to avoid having difficulties in learning the instrument but it involves active dedication on the student's part. Below are some suggestions to bear in mind that might result in that.

1. It would be the ideal world whereby everyone becomes a masterful musician on any instrument that they prefer. However, the reality is that it can only be a result of a combination of factors including talent, hard work, discipline and luck. It would be much more enjoyable if one concentrates on having fun whilst learning the violin instead of trying to be the next famous musician.

2. Practice and having the discipline to keep at it is paramount to achieving the desired results. If you decide to slack during the course, do not expect to receive the same level of returns on the instrument. You will find that it might take much longer for you to master any technique compared to your peers.

3. Many beginners do not pay enough attention to posture and technique. Some even develop bad habits from the start, which are difficult to correct later on in life. Do not fall into this trap and always spend time to perfect how to hold the violin, the bow and other techniques like proper chin rest posture.

4. It is easy to rely on methods that might promote a faster learning pace, but in return you might rely too much on unorthodox techniques. For example, some students find it difficult to learn proper fingerings since the violin neck is unmarked. Thus, they put markers to help them remember. Some of them are able to do without the markers, but many actually become lazier and never do. Avoid the same mistakes.

5. Take good care of your violin and accessories. There are some who believe that a spiritual connection can exist between a musician and his instrument. While it might sound unbelievable for some, you might start playing better on a violin that is well maintained and free from problems.

6. The most important virtue to have is being positive and not giving up when the going get tough. The latter can occur quite frequently when it comes to this four stringed beauty. But the ones who finally succeed are often those who persevered and practiced endlessly.

It is rare to have a perfect journey throughout life. Certainly, one cannot expect to be able to master the violin in a few short months. The tips above should help any student to keep things in perspective and minds focused. It is hoped that eventually every beginner will be able to attain skill levels that they are happy with.

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