Learn Violin your way with a TakeLessons expert

For anyone who loves music, the violin is a beautiful instrument that has been around for centuries. Though the modern violin has only been around since the 16th century, there are still many different types of violins that can be played.  One type of violin that has become increasingly popular in recent years is the vintage violin. But what exactly is a vintage violin, and how are they different? Let's take a closer look. Why Are Old Violins So Valuable? Many factors contribute to t

If you’ve decided you may want to learn the violin, you’re in the right place! You might be wondering is it hard to play the violin, and this guide will answer that question for you. We’ll also share common challenges new violinists face and how to overcome them.  Is it Hard to Play the Violin? If we’re being honest, the violin is one of the hardest instruments to learn. With that said, a positive attitude and knowledge about how to learn to play the violin on your own and with help

Whether you’re a violinist looking to get ready for a wedding performance or you’re the one saying ‘I do’ and you want to find the best violin wedding songs, you’re in the right place! Below, violin teacher Julie P. shares violin wedding music and helpful tips for preparing and performing... Wedding season is both an exciting and stressful time for violinists and the couple tying the knot. There are many weddings, high demand, planning the perfect day, and so much more.  Whether

Just What is Musicality, Anyway? Musicality is defined in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary as “the quality of being musical.” What does that mean, though? Is there a method to defining what is musical versus what is not? One can instinctively hear when a phrase sounds natural, beautiful, convincing -  musical - versus when it is not. Phrasing, much like public speaking, can be made more or less convincing depending on the manner with which you deliver a phrase. Quantz, the famous

What does it really take to master violin vibrato? The technique doesn't always come naturally to students, so persistence and practice should be no-brainers. And of course, working with a qualified violin teacher. If you're struggling, check out this helpful advice from Bolingbrook, IL teacher Kelvin L... For too long students have been told that vibrato is an emotional urge; that it will just come when it is needed. But please don’t think that vibrato is just going to happen magically.

There are mobile apps for just about everything these days--even playing the violin. Below, violin teacher Julie P. shares 10 helpful apps for violinists... The world of music apps is ever expanding. More and more apps are available to help musicians with everything from music theory to sight reading to organizing practice time. Specifically, there are many helpful apps for violinists. Whether you're a seasoned violin players or you're just starting to take violin lessons, there

It takes years of determination, focus, and practice to master the violin. Many people start their musical education using a qualified instructor, but maybe you want to try to teach yourself violin. This is a huge undertaking with great potential for learning the wrong way of holding the violin, standing incorrectly, or practicing imperfect fingerings. However, if you want to understand the basics of learning your instrument before taking violin lessons with a teacher, here are a few introductor

While it's always important to practice violin scales and songs, sometimes you just need a little break to recharge your batteries and renew your motivation. Get ready to relax and laugh with this list of violin jokes (some original, some classics from around the web) from Lukas Stanley from Music Pick Up Lines (@CMCPickupLines)... You won't need your violin or your bow, but make sure you have your sense of humor. Tickle your funny bone with these violin jokes, riddles, and puns! But f

Do you love playing the violin? From Heifetz to Perlman, there are dozens of famous violin players who have helped inspire us all. Whether you’re just starting to learn the violin or you’re a seasoned professional, chances are there’s a certain violinist who you’ve channeled more than others. Find out which of these famous violin players is your alter ego in the quiz below! Be sure to share your results with your fellow violinists. Which of the famous violin players did you

One of the most challenging parts of learning how to play the violin is learning how to hold a bow properly, as it can feel very unnatural for beginner and intermediate students. While it can be frustrating, learning how to hold a violin bow is extremely important--especially for those who are just starting violin lessons. With proper bow technique, you can essentially produce whatever tones, strokes, and dynamics you want. However, if you have trouble controlling the bow, you'l