Adult Beginner

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Permalink Reply by Carol Healey on March 22, 2009 at 11:59am

Hi, my name is Carol. I teach the violin in the UK and count myself as an experienced player. But if I hold the violin and bow on the opposite side to normal I feel clumsy, like a complete beginner, in spite of all I know about how to play. I think it takes a very long time to program the parts of the brain in charge of fine movements. Just be patient and do lots of relaxed practice. Imagine the sound you want to make and see if your unconscious processes will do it if you trust them. Also don't resist your mistakes. They are just a way of finding out what works. Presumably you are having lessons with someone understanding. Adults are always self conscious and self critical. We are used to being very competent at most things and feel embarrassed easily. Suzuki method does believe in repetition until perfect. If you are getting frustrated maybe you could try another approach?

The violin is a very hard instrument, so well done for getting as far as you have so far!

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Permalink Reply by Ann Marie Cordial on August 17, 2009 at 9:21am

I think it's hilarious that you started what you did. Wish more people would do that. It sounds like a load of fun!

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Permalink Reply by Jean Goon on August 17, 2009 at 9:41am

Hello to all. I am now learning Brahms Waltz in Suzuki Book 2. Having a difficult time crossing strings and with that ornament in it. Tried to play it with sori004jy but I can't keep up with her yet. Someday, I will.

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Permalink Reply by Claudio Jaffe on September 30, 2009 at 6:21pm

Be patient, it just takes time and practice. Be sure to practice every day, even if it is just a little. As far as being behind, or ahead, I agree of many of the comments, that there is no universal gauge for speed of learning. You must enjoy the process, that is, if practicing and exploring your instrument gives you pleasure, you are actually farther ahead than you think!

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Permalink Reply by Jerry Ronny Posumah on October 8, 2009 at 7:36am

Hi Jean
Why matters on delay practice. I also beggin, in my 38, year ago. and now i enter Suzuki book 2.
But I use not only Suzuki book but Kaiser as well. You should learn another to improve technique.
just keep praciticing.
And to avoid getting bored, try another string instrument like cello or viola.
I take cello now and since then I amazingly can place my little fingers very well on violin.
Gbu

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Permalink Reply by Luiz on October 24, 2009 at 2:25pm

Hi Jean. My name is Luiz and I started to play the violin when I was 5. In those times, as I was so young, things to me were so easy. But I have to say one thing. You made me remember one friend that used to study violin with me, the same school as mine. She was probably your age, and very dedicated. I was so impresced with her dedication. It was amazing. But even tough, I could feel that her pace were much slower than mine (I was very young and you know how young people are energetic, don't you).
Anyway, my message to you would be: don't worry too much. Go in your own pace. You aren't in a competition, are you? Just enjoy, do things in your own time and try to feel as much pleasure as you can, ok?

Cheers!

ps.: and if you want some more info and tips for beginners, go at 'violinforbeginners':

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