The Only Guide You'll Ever Need to Playing a Violin in a Band

For the most part, it’s no different than if you were going to play violin by yourself, as a soloist. 

However, there are some techniques for playing a violin in a band that stand out – and are absolutely necessary if you want to be successful.

Go to Practice

Once you’ve found other musicians to play with, make sure that you’re able to dedicate time to band practices and performances. Most bands practice once or twice weekly. Depending on where you’re located, you might have gigs every weekend or just once every couple of months. Be dedicated and take your band seriously if you want to do well.

Gather Your Equipment

Additionally, make sure that you have all the violin equipment you’ll need for live performances. Depending on the noise level in your band, you might be able to simply mic your violin on-stage and play. If your band is a bit louder, springing for an electric violin and an amp will be the best solution to ensure you are heard.

Musically, there are lots of things you can do with your violin to add a whole new layer to a band’s sound.

The violin can repeat the song’s melody as a solo instrument, echo the back-up vocals, or add musical fills between phrases. Keep in mind that you don’t have to be playing every second of every song. Sometimes a violinist makes the most impact by only playing on important, dynamic parts of a song.

Listen to the Experts Playing a Violin

Listen to a lot of music that features violinists for inspiration. A couple of our favorite contemporary violinists are Lindsey Stirling and Owen Pallett, but there are many other great artists making interesting and creative new music on the violin.

Experiment With Different Techniques

Don’t be afraid to experiment with looping, effects pedals, and other new technology as it emerges. Be curious about what equipment your bandmates are using and always ask them for feedback on your sound.

Try Unique Genres When Playing a Violin

It’s all too easy to find yourself stuck doing the same-old, same-old when it comes to playing a violin in a band. However, if you want to start improving your skills and shattering batteries, you’ve got to think outside the box!

For example, if you’ve always played in an orchestra, you may want to learn how to play violin in a jazz band.

If you’re used to playing a violin in a jazz band, you might want to learn how to play violin in a worship band.

And if you’ve always played acoustic violin, you’ll want to learn how to play electric violin in a band.

Challenge yourself to always be learning new things about playing a violin – you’re sure to grow as an artist! 

Is it Hard to Play in a Band?

It can be challenging to play in a band, but the camaraderie you experience and the beautiful music you create together will be well worth all that extra work. 

The most important thing to remember is that playing in a band should be fun! After all, you got into making music because you like it and you want to have a good time.

Be friends with your bandmates and take time to do things together, whether that means having a pizza after practice or listening to records together.

When you perform, your audience can tell if you’re having fun, and this helps them to have a great time too!

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