Violins are stringed instruments composed of four strings stretched over an instrument body with a peg box and neck at one end, typically made out of wood such as spruce or maple.
Learning to play the violin takes time and practice; however, there are a few things you can do to start off on the right note.
The Palm-to-Neck Rule
Before picking up the violin, take some time to learn the Palm-to-Neck Rule. This method teaches proper finger placement on its fingerboard, which will have an enormously positive impact on how your playing sounds.
Setting your fingers correctly for producing an appealing sound can be tricky for beginner violinists.
Once you master the Palm-to-Neck Rule, you will easily place your fingers on a violin’s fingerboard. Furthermore, this rule also helps determine whether notes are flat or sharp so that you can adjust your playing accordingly.
Left hand positioning should ensure your thumb and fingers hit the fingerboard at an optimal angle, and rest along its top (side to side dimension). Doing this ensures they all align perfectly and that each finger strikes it at exactly the correct angle.
Choosing a Violin
When it comes to finding a violin for beginners, many factors should be taken into consideration. You want an instrument that suits you personally while inspiring excitement about playing violin.
As well as being stylish and durable, you should select a violin from a brand that has earned its place among high-quality violin manufacturers. To do this, pay special attention when selecting an instrument’s brand.
If you need assistance finding the appropriate brand of violin, it may be helpful to visit a music store with knowledgeable staff members available who can guide your search and help find an instrument suited specifically to you. They will be able to address any queries or make recommendations, ensuring you find your dream instrument!
Choosing a Case
An essential piece of equipment for beginner violins, the violin case protects the instrument, prevents damage from humidity or temperature changes and includes theft-prevention locks to keep theft at bay.
Your choice of case depends on your personal preferences and budget; some prefer lightweight cases while others value the security provided by hard cases.
As part of your research process, another factor you must take into account when choosing a violin is size. It’s essential that it fits comfortably around your shoulders, back, hands and arms without causing pain or discomfort in those areas.
As this can be a difficult decision, take your time. A music shop typically employs knowledgeable staff members who will assist in matching you up with a quality violin model that’s suitable to you.
Choosing a Bow
There are various bow options to select, and it is crucial that you find one you enjoy using to ensure you can produce sound from your violin with maximum comfort and quality.
An excellent bow will not only increase your confidence and enjoyment of music, but can help increase its enjoyment as well. When selecting one, several factors such as length, weight and balance should be taken into consideration when making this important choice.
As a beginner violin player, when selecting a bow it is most important to ensure it fits. To do this, measure from your chin to the center of your palm.
As this step is key, purchasing an instrument too small for you can be both frustrating and difficult to play; additionally, the instrument may not provide enough stability to learn proper technique.
