Why Is Violin so Hard to Play? My Honest Answer

แชร์
ฝัง
  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 21 ก.ย. 2022
  • 👉 Why Is Playing the Violin so Hard? violinspiration.com/why-is-pl...
    🎻 How to Tune a Violin violinspiration.com/how-to-tu...
    ***********************************
    🎻 BECOME A STUDENT OF MY ACADEMY 🎻
    Learn the Violin with my Step-By-Step Learning System & Get my Personal Feedback
    👉 juliasviolinacademy.com
    ✅ JOIN OUR VIOLIN CAMPS FOR ADULTS IN EUROPE
    👉 violinvilla.com/
    ✅ GET MY FREE WEEKLY PRACTICE MOTIVATION IN YOUR INBOX
    👉 violinspiration.com/free-memb...
    ✅ SUBSCRIBE TO VIOLINSPIRATION - New Violin Lessons Every Week
    👉 th-cam.com/users/violinspirati...
    ***********************************
    Find me on Social Media for my Latest Updates & Violin Goodies
    🐦 Twitter: julia_violin
    📸 Instagram: Violinspiration
    👩🏼‍💻 Facebook: Violinspiration
    📌 Pinterest: juliatermeer
    **********************************
    Hi there! 👋
    My name is Julia, violin teacher and creator of this TH-cam channel! As you might have guessed, I created this channel to inspire YOU to practice the violin, push through your struggles and become the violin player you dream to be!
    In my daily life I am an online violin teacher at Julia’s Violin Academy - the most supportive online violin school on the internet!
    Some of the amazing things we offer:
    ▶︎ Step-by-step 🗓 curriculum: Learn the violin at your own pace with our easy step-by-step learning system from an absolute beginner to advanced level. 📈
    ▶︎ Personal 💬 Feedback: Submit your personal videos to me for review and I will reply with feedback & practice recommendations. 👩🏼‍🏫 🎻
    ▶︎ Daily Live 🔴 Practice Sessions in a group of adult violinists: improve while making friends all over the world 👫 🌏
    So if you’d like to take violin lessons with me in a really supportive environment I highly recommend trying it out at www.juliasviolinacademy.com
    Thanks so much for visiting my channel and I hope to meet you soon at Julia’s Violin Academy!

ความคิดเห็น • 311

  • @phannybrce
    @phannybrce ปีที่แล้ว +20

    Violin is also hard because it requires you to know your body and how to relax while maintaining proper tension.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      This is definitely true. Not just to know but to listen to it and respond accordingly. This is a challenge for most players, new and old.

  • @deadmanswife3625
    @deadmanswife3625 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    One thing that's very easy about violin is you only need to learn to read the treble clef.
    piano you need to learn to read both

  • @machanrahan1074
    @machanrahan1074 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    "If you were to rely on youtube, you would definitely not be happy." Best quote I've heard or read for a long time. Thank you.

  • @DrQuizzler
    @DrQuizzler ปีที่แล้ว +14

    I studied oboe as a kid, and I think that instrument has one or two things in common with the violin, making it difficult to master quickly like the violin is, but at least an oboist has keys. When piano teachers talk about "tone" issues, I always harken back to how difficult other instruments are to sound good on. Given the huge learning curve issues you've outlined here, string players are indeed a rare breed, and you're doing beginners a huge service with your school. Great video!!

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Wow, Thanks so much. I am glad you think so.😊

  • @violinlover3817
    @violinlover3817 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    It was very true. One of my friends plays the dulcimer, another one plays the guitar, and when they tried the violin, it was very difficult to say how to hold the violin. In my opinion, the violin is the most difficult instrument in the world. We should not compare ourselves with great musicians, and I know that we should very much. Be patient and love to learn violin and we have a long way to go👍

    • @peterjones6507
      @peterjones6507 ปีที่แล้ว

      Maybe. But try classical guitar beyond grade five. .

    • @lpfever018
      @lpfever018 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Peter Jones, Agree. When people say playing guitar, they usually mean acoustic or electric. But playing classical guitar at a master level is, I think, the most difficult task because it is such a delicate instrument. There are so many things to go wrong not to make any mistakes even in playing a simple piece.

    • @violinlover3817
      @violinlover3817 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@lpfever018 yes guitar classic is hard

    • @cohenshcohen
      @cohenshcohen ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@peterjones6507 yup...but not as difficult as a violin..guitars have frets...

    • @gemmamerinserra4988
      @gemmamerinserra4988 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@peterjones6507 Agree! I've played guitar and now I'm learning violin. However, with violin, even a children's song is difficult!

  • @ram_page
    @ram_page ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Hi Julia - Your videos are an inspiration to anyone learning violin. I started learning the violin at the age of 45 (now I am 47) and I love everyone of your videos. Congratulations on posting this very required video talking about how difficult the instrument is to learn and yet with passion, commitment and hard work; anyone interested, has a chance to learn this beautiful instrument. Thanks again! Cheers.

  • @John_Bradbury
    @John_Bradbury ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Such an honest assessment of learning this pesky little instrument is truly violinspirational! I started learning this year and as I am 70 my bucket list includes surviving long enough to reach a standard that I can enjoy playing!

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I wish you the best of luck on your violin journey, you got this!🤩

  • @andrewhcit
    @andrewhcit ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Great video, and great advice. Bowed string instruments are seriously hard. But persistence counts for a lot. I play viola, which of course is very similar, and started late -- not technically an adult starter, but very close to being one. (I started in my last year of high school.) I now play in a semi-professional orchestra, and have performed as a soloist with an amateur orchestra (playing the Bruch Romanze). It took me 14 years to get into my current orchestra, and I'm still challenging myself and improving after playing for 22 years. My orchestra recently added a cellist who started learning as an adult; her story is also about persistence, as she has been playing for 13 years. It's possible for adult beginners to get very good at playing a string instrument, but it takes time. I think the biggest obstacle for many adult starters is that we're old enough to get self-conscious and discouraged about how slow our progress is, whereas for young children it's just something they do. It's really important to keep in mind that, even after two or three or four years, the journey is only just beginning.
    Oh, and even those child prodigies on TH-cam were beginners and sounded terrible for a much longer time than most people realize.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thanks so much for commentating on my video and sharing your thoughts. I think you are right that adults are a bit more self conscious than children which is shame. But also a good reminder to have the joy of a child when learning to play it. 😊

    • @cletedavis5849
      @cletedavis5849 ปีที่แล้ว

      Bravo, andrewhcit! Stick with it and keep challenging your self! I teach violin, and specialize in adult beginners, and although it's a tough road, it is definitely worthwhile!

  • @pedade02
    @pedade02 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Best honest, clear, truthfull, demystifying, encouraging and supportive explanations possible.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I am glad you think so. :)

  • @sharischindel8665
    @sharischindel8665 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Thank you for this video Julia, it is completely on point! I think so many adult violin learners are perfectionists and your video definitely will help us relax more and not be so hard on ourselves!

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yes. indeed. I am so happy you like it, Shari. 🥰

  • @pruettstephen1413
    @pruettstephen1413 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thank you for the encouragement! It does help.

  • @rickyslick4601
    @rickyslick4601 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome thank you for your input👍

  • @PurpleFringe
    @PurpleFringe ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I've just watched this, and it meant so much to me. I'm a returning violinist - I learned as a child, but gave up at 18.
    Almost three years ago, age 57, I took up playing again, and although I'm improving, it's been so hard. Improvement comes so slowly, and although I'm not a beginner, it's still just as easy to lose motivation when progress is - as usual - slower than hoped.
    My pro violinist friend paid to have my old violin (unplayed for 40 years) restored as a gift, and now I practise most days. She's given me occasional lessons - from which I realised that so much of my old technique was just bad, so a lot of unlearning had to come before new learning.
    But now I'm better than I ever was. Second position is no longer terrifying; my bow moves straighter, sometimes I can even be relaxed and controlled enough to manage a little 4th finger vibrato. I'm working (mostly struggling) on Bach, and Hilary Hahn is my idol.
    As an adult student I understand the process of learning so much better than I did as a child, so I can make sense of the struggles at least, and discipline myself to practise the hard parts slowly.
    Your comments about character and determination were a huge encouragement. Thank you.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      What a wonderful gift your friend gave you by restoring your violin. I am happy my video was encouraging to you. Thanks so much for sharing.😊

  • @jennathomas1354
    @jennathomas1354 ปีที่แล้ว

    thank you for posting this 😊

  • @joncoffey4821
    @joncoffey4821 ปีที่แล้ว

    Rand Lyons, you are spot on!

  • @rosewhite9082
    @rosewhite9082 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is a beautiful video! So true and eye opening! 😍

  • @Hoom1972
    @Hoom1972 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    When I first started playing, my wife would slam doors just so she didn't have to hear the screeching. Now, she sits in the same room and she also told me that my playing sounds very nice and the notes really ring. Keep at it and you'll get there. Thanks Julia!

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      Wonderful! Thanks for sharing.🤩🥰🎻

  • @visualtrigger2469
    @visualtrigger2469 ปีที่แล้ว

    Fantastic video! Thank you so much!

  • @pedade02
    @pedade02 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    THE most honest presentation of what it is to learn violin. Many thanks for your authenticity with no artificial embellishment. I have bought and sold 4 violins before feeling confident that I am going somewhere with it. Now I own a 5th one and this time I know I will not give up anymore.

  • @captainshiggles
    @captainshiggles ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you . I needed to hear this

  • @robertlynn7746
    @robertlynn7746 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks Julia that was helpful!

  • @wiolap601
    @wiolap601 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you so much Julia.♥

  • @sharon2764
    @sharon2764 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    As a violin player who is pretty good but no Hillary Hahn. Thanks for making me feel good 👍🏼. BTW, I am 69 yrs. young.

  • @devrajmenon9937
    @devrajmenon9937 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Very informative 👍, well explained.... Thank you 👍🙏

  • @momoma533
    @momoma533 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you so much for your nice speech! :))

  • @carlossandiego681
    @carlossandiego681 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you Julia for such amazing videos! Have been for enjoying and learning so much from your channel for the past 2 years now, in fact I just posted a little vid of my violin journey so far ☺️ and what I’ve picked up along the way. So incredibly appreciative of your efforts and willingness to share your wisdom, you are a true violinspiration!

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Wonderful! Thank you so much for your support and letting me be a part of your violin journey.😊

  • @seanmcghee2373
    @seanmcghee2373 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Can confirm as an adult just-past-beginner of 2 and a half years in. Vibrato is the hardest and I think I'll be able to play Paganini 24 before I get vibrato to work right

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      😂🙈 I wish you the best of luck learning vibrato, and Paganini 24!

    • @seanmcghee2373
      @seanmcghee2373 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Violinspiration Thanks! it is a passion of mine so some of both will sink in eventually (right now I'm trying to nail down Meditation and Beau Soir...the latter containing parallel octaves)

    • @jannaking6581
      @jannaking6581 ปีที่แล้ว

      Weird, she sounds JUST LIKE my violin teacher!!! Helps so much to know I'm "normal"!☺️♥️

    • @zeniktorres4320
      @zeniktorres4320 ปีที่แล้ว

      Vibrato is critical for me to do, and it IS hard. Older adult starter as well, I didn't start vibrato until 5 years after starting violin. Turning the clock forward 5 years after that, after daily struggling, perseverance and trying different approaches, I finally got it. It feels comfortable, I like the sound, depth and rate, smooth finger translations are coming along, Many notes I find harder to do than others and don't sound as good, but its coming along now, and about time too. It was my goal from day one. 10 years it took me. Unbelievable! So keep at.

  • @mypham2788
    @mypham2788 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thank you for your insights Julia. I have played piano many years and started violin a little over a year ago. Having background in classical music with another instrument does help and speed up the process, but yes violin is still harder than most instruments. One thing I found about playing violin is it seems more “organic” to me, almost like singing. When I play the violin I get the same sensory satisfaction as if I was singing. Yes I get a lot of satisfaction playing the piano too, but with piano it feels as if I am making music *on* the instrument, whereas with violin it feels as if the sound comes from within myself. With piano I am supposed to make the instrument sing whereas with violin the sound that I make *is* my voice. Not sure if I describe it well enough, but a word that comes to mind is playing the violin seems more organic, more internalized to me.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You described it perfectly! Thank you so much for sharing.🥰

  • @joncoffey4821
    @joncoffey4821 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    For an Adult beginner. Violin is very difficult. You have, however, lower the level of difficulty considerably. Thank you for your dedication not only to music but, also, to us, the beginners who also love music who happened to get a late start. Still like the hair. Greetings from Oklahoma

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      You're very welcome. Thanks for your kind words.😊

  • @weihawang4246
    @weihawang4246 ปีที่แล้ว

    A wonderful and realistic presentation

  • @victerguitarist
    @victerguitarist 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Awesome explain.. experience 😊

  • @sallyhauser7415
    @sallyhauser7415 ปีที่แล้ว

    Well said, Julia. The ones with patience are the teachers like you. Thanks for being there!

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      I am happy you found my video encouraging. Thanks for your support.🥰

  • @fishmut
    @fishmut ปีที่แล้ว

    I just love your videos , this is so so true In Every way you mentioned about the violin but I have only been playing a few months and love learning this instrument , I dedicate myself everyday to play even just a little bit and as I,m improving I’m learning more and more songs that I love I some times mess up but I’m ok with that and just get back to when I’m ready , a bad night sleep and I play horrible , it shows , I play and focus so much better when I’m alert and focused not tired etc. I got a lot to learn but I’m loving this I instrument , my only regret is I wish I picked it up much earlier in life . Big thumbs up .👍

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks! I am happy you like the video and that at no matter what age you started your violin journey, the fact that you started! Best of luck as you continue forward.😊

  • @TheCstri
    @TheCstri ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Before all those reasons, the most difficult at me in the beginning is get the violin secure under your chin.
    "What if I let it fall??!"
    Besides all, it is one of my life goals, and I am in the middle :-/

  • @ellendegreef9772
    @ellendegreef9772 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you, I think I needed to hear that! At 42, I started to learn the violin. I only had 3 lessons up til now but I do enjoy it a lot! I had about 10 years of piano classes up til I was 18, and I also took some years of singing classes so I wasn’t a music newbie ie I don’t need to learn to read sheet music, luckily ;) . However, even though I was prepared this would be a difficult instrument to master, I have to admit it is still a lot to take in all at once and I can feel a bit insecure when my teacher has to correct me again for something she must have explained already about 10 times. I guess she is more aware of the technical difficulties than I am since she always corrects me with the same patience ;) . I do enjoy the journey! But just sometimes I wonder if it is normal to have this kind of slow progress - or perhaps it’s actually not that slow at all but having learned to play the piano as a first instrument (which I still find a wonderful instrument to play!) has set me up with a different “frame” of expectations. I’m at Suzuki book 1, Twinkle Twinkle variations A to D right now after about a month ;) . PS I might be wrong, but I think you are Dutch … groetjes uit België! ;)

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I am glad my video was encouraging for you. Yes, I am Dutch!😊

  • @haimbenavraham1502
    @haimbenavraham1502 ปีที่แล้ว

    An excellent introduction. No pain, no gain!

  • @sarahmae1473
    @sarahmae1473 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is a very motivating video! I'm just currently learning the violin and there are times I really get frustrated and I almost want to quit. But seeing this video helps me to get motivated again. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and I hope to learn more from you. 🥰🥰

  • @robinmarks5638
    @robinmarks5638 ปีที่แล้ว

    The best explanation yet why it is so difficult!!!

  • @byJulianaFerreira
    @byJulianaFerreira 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thank you so much for saying exactly how I feel, I’ve started to learn violin about 3 months ago and I feel excited but quite discouraged sometimes
    Is the first instrument I’ve ever tried to learn, it is difficult but I’ll keep trying
    Your videos are helping me a lot as well 🌷

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I am so glad you are finding my videos helpful and encouraging. It is indeed a difficult instrument, but you got this!

  • @t0ffu597
    @t0ffu597 ปีที่แล้ว

    Muchas Gracias profesora, aprendo mucho de usted

  • @malar3260
    @malar3260 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Truly extremely difficult.. Tq for the video. You always motive me.

  • @dougnickerson
    @dougnickerson 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Excellent - explains well why each position is taken up individually because of the different muscle memory - also thank you for the comment that there is so many other things associated with music , and friendships that you learn when studying an instrument . Also in terms of comparisons , my teacher likes to say , "run your own race " 😀

  • @DonAlpha
    @DonAlpha ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Agreed, It's not an easy instrument to play but I thank God I have self played if for one year now with the help of TH-cam teachers like Julia

  • @priyamurugan5014
    @priyamurugan5014 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    As a beginner,. I can really be able to relate to all the scenarios you explained in the video. Kudos for your sharing. Lots of love to you 💖😊🎊

  • @ernstvandijk6342
    @ernstvandijk6342 ปีที่แล้ว

    Leuke en informatieve video, Julia! Dikke kus vanuit Luxemburg!

  • @BA97000
    @BA97000 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks to you I have learned to play a lot of tunes and I only started in March 22 after a long time away since 1968. I have learned so much by watching your videos. Being left handed helps a lot. Thank you.

  • @stephencannon1289
    @stephencannon1289 ปีที่แล้ว

    this video is amazing thanks :) iv played viola for 1 and a half years.

  • @joydomroes3480
    @joydomroes3480 ปีที่แล้ว

    I really need inspiration. My instructor left and I alway looked forward to that Thursday hour lesson .I can't get myself motivated to play.And I truly love violin.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      Sorry to hear about your teacher. I hope my videos motivate you to keep playing. You got this!🥰🤩

  • @BonafideToolJunkie
    @BonafideToolJunkie ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I hear your Dutch accent. My mother is from Holland, town of Wassenaar. We always look forward to having Dutch bake goods during the holiday season. Salt liquorice, marzipan, stroop waffles and rusk. I can pass on pickled herring. Ha!

  • @joncoffey4821
    @joncoffey4821 ปีที่แล้ว

    As an adult beginner, the information you covered, for me is so needed to hear often to help maintain one’s sanity. Thank you. Still Love the hair up like that. Greetings from Oklahoma

  • @rochelleludick8840
    @rochelleludick8840 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you very much for this video. I just finished my 3rd year of playing and I wasn't satisfied with my progress. Just like you mentioned when you watch other violinist on TH-cam and compare yourself to them. Your video made me feel a lot better and it is very true, only other people who also play instruments know how hard it is. Thanks so much! I enjoy your videos from South Africa.😃

  • @ubdkslw
    @ubdkslw ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you.

  • @Andrew-jb4tg
    @Andrew-jb4tg ปีที่แล้ว +2

    great video. honest and forthright! as an adult beginner who is about to step into suzuki book 6. persistence is key. you WILL learn if you try

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Good luck with book 6! And congratulation on books 1-5!🥰🤩😃

  • @auntiesophiasays7437
    @auntiesophiasays7437 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Julia, I feel that you made this video for me particularly. :) After a year, I find it frustrating to lack intonation (and other things). I know what it is SUPPOSED to sound like, but it is hard to make that happen. Anyway, I played in front of my daughter a month or so ago (she lives in a different country and was visiting) and I saw her try to look supportive but actually seemed a bit like she was cringing. I totally understood. So I asked her if she wanted to try it. (She plays the clarinet and is quite good at it.) It took her about five minutes to get a decent sound out of the bow on an open string. And she completely understood at that point that I was actually doing pretty good! That made me feel better. It is a true test of perseverance to keep at something and sound not great while you are doing it. A supportive environment (like yours) is a must for me. Otherwise I would have quit long ago!!

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I am so happy you had your daughter try to play your violin so she could see the amount of work you put into it and didn't quit! Keep up the great work. You will only get better. You got this!🥰🎻

    • @M_SC
      @M_SC ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Being able to hear in your head what it sounds like is a skill though.

  • @cletedavis5849
    @cletedavis5849 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Ah yes, the issues of teaching new students to play the violin! I have taught violin for the last 60 years, and many of my students have gone on to careers as violinists, but most had a seriously difficult time as beginners. I still teach, and now the majority of my students are adult students who have begun learning as adults. I can only recall one student who simply could NOT learn to play, and that was because he could not physically turn his left hand to finger the notes. However, over the years there have been a number who dropped out due to the difficulties presented by the instrument.

    • @zeniktorres4320
      @zeniktorres4320 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Adult starter too, started10 years ago (now late 50's), I had trouble turning my left hand as well, but at the time I did not know that is was the cause of big problems until years later. Now slowly over many years, I can now turn my wrist around quite alot, and because I'm aware of it now, I do stretching exercises to keep it that way. But it took a very long time to achieve that. Much patience indeed.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Happy to hear you stuck with it!

  • @smuttersbake
    @smuttersbake ปีที่แล้ว

    ..the most difficult must be not to take You into ones heart. Brilliantly in all aspects.

  • @williamvollmer9618
    @williamvollmer9618 ปีที่แล้ว

    Easiest things (relatively): reading music, intonation (first position). Hardest things: shifts (1st to 3rd position, etc.), smooth, rapid bow-strokes (where needed).

  • @knaz7468
    @knaz7468 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Excellent video. I have been struggling for several years as a beginner adult violinist. It has been challenging on so many levels and to this day my intonation is very inconsistent. Also all the "extra" sounds from string crossings, lifting your finger too fast or at the wrong time when moving to the next note, doing slurs with the correct bow speed, and like a dozen other things that all at once make it so darn hard to make any single song sound good each time I play it. I've tried real life teachers as well as online lessons, but nothing seems to work. I'm not going to give up, but it is ahrd to stay motivated when I see such little progress.

    • @zeniktorres4320
      @zeniktorres4320 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I went through the exact same thing as you are. 'but nothing seems to work' - that what it was. Month after month after month, year after year, nothing solving the issues. Very slow progress. I persisted with daily practice even though many times I didn't feel like it. Intonation, slurs, bow hitting others strings, I still have those issues, but its better now. Vibrato is utmost importance to me, and it was so difficult, awkward, again very little progress over years and again kept trying different approaches. Finally, 5 years of struggling with daily vibrato practice I think I just got it, well I hope so. Still have issues, and ways to go, but it feels comfortable, and reasonable sounding too (to me anyway). I started violin 10 years ago (in my 50's now) and my progress was slow as I found the violin difficult to hold. So, kept at it, do stretching exercises, daily practice, it will come together. Enjoy the challenge.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks. I am glad you like the video. But yes it takes time, and patience and Practice. You got this.

  • @andreafiorito9491
    @andreafiorito9491 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    1) fingerboard: a) use harmonics, harmonics are like frets. b) use the frame of the hand, changing it with the left arm
    2) bow: isolate the joints of the right arm and hand and understand the effect of the them on bow movements. then combine the joints to compose bow strokes.
    3) tune with a tuner app on a mobile
    4) use only the minimum number of muscles for one movement

  • @silvag.r.4955
    @silvag.r.4955 ปีที่แล้ว

    You speak right to mi heart!!!😙😙😙😙😙

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      🥰

    • @silvag.r.4955
      @silvag.r.4955 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Violinspiration th-cam.com/video/fx6APiyHcxU/w-d-xo.html

  • @MusicaAngela
    @MusicaAngela ปีที่แล้ว +6

    This is such a valuable video, especially for parents who are thinking of giving their child violin lessons. I’m a cello teacher and the challenges are similar but the sound of a beginner cellist is less painful to hear! I like that you said, “The fun is in the challenge “ and that there are so many wonderful things you can develop in yourself from dedicated daily study of the violin. I had a mindset that I would look for the best teachers for my children at age 6 and expected them to continue until they were 18 despite ups and downs. They are in their 30s now and still play the violin beautifully even though it is not their main career. I think a parent needs to understand that this is a long-term commitment with huge benefits.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Beautifully said. Thanks so much for sharing.😊

  • @verbenadsouza2784
    @verbenadsouza2784 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Julia I am very thankful to you for addressing this topic as it motivates us to carry on practicing the violin and better at it day by day, knowing that the violin is a difficult instrument to play. I appreciate the way you put forth the explanation in such a simple manner. You are a great violin teacher. Best wishes to you from India.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I am so happy you like the video.😊

  • @sabiduriafuerza7300
    @sabiduriafuerza7300 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for this. I am a beginner player of violin. One of my challenges is about tuning the violin. I already broke four (4) (E) strings..hahaha..but still continues to learn how to tune "tips" from youtube channels..etc.. It is really hard but I believe, like all skills, it all takes practice..🙂

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      You can do it! It is indeed difficult, especially when you are just learning. But you got this!😃

  • @10data10
    @10data10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good video. It sounds like on the map of what people want out of the violin and what decisions they need to make, your advice is for people who want to be challenged and to make their playing enjoyable to other people. But other people might go to a point (on the map) where they just want their playing to be a soul-satisfying experience for themselves. I start my day with a few minutes of playing and it really helps me. But I’ve taken some shortcuts. I use a special strap to hold my violin. (I made a video about this). I only play in the first three positions. I’ve had to shift my left hand because no amount of practice will make my skin less slick. The violin is a difficult instrument but worth it. However, its painfully frustrating if someone is at the wrong point on the map.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank so much for sharing. Playing in three positions is a great accomplishment. Nice you were able to make a strap to hold your violin to make it easier for you. 😊

    • @zeniktorres4320
      @zeniktorres4320 ปีที่แล้ว

      What do you mean by 'will make my skin less slick' ? Are you saying your finger tips are dry and have a tendency to slide?

    • @10data10
      @10data10 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@zeniktorres4320 I don’t think of my thumb pad as dry, it just has less friction. I’ve seen articles (and a video) that talk about the differences in skin friction. Some of it is due to the finger ridges and some of it is due to the skin itself. I guess in general the violin is not very well accommodating for a wide range of hand types.

  • @woodlandbarnnursery
    @woodlandbarnnursery ปีที่แล้ว

    Lovely video Julia, thanks so much. I'm a late starter ( started aged 72 and now after 4 years have passed grade 5 ABRSM have joined an amateur orchestra, so it is possible at any age. I play the piano which is easier because you have no fear off dropping it ! but love the violin because it can sing. I can just about manage The Londonderry Air to sound nice, but most of my music sounds pretty bad!

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      That is Great, Tony! Congratulations. Well done.🤩🤩🤩🤩

  • @asraiSOA
    @asraiSOA ปีที่แล้ว +1

    From someone who's been learning for 5-6 years who also happens to be impatient, the violin is quite the exercise in frustration.

  • @28sazid
    @28sazid ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks

  • @fredbarker658
    @fredbarker658 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for that great video!
    From my angle, another element that contributes to making the violin difficult to play is that the violinist must hear the note played and possibly make minor adjustments in finger position to ensure the note is correct!
    And yet another element that makes violin difficult is vibrato. As a violinist, vibrato is a staple of violin playing and it takes a long time to produce good sounding vibrato.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      That is indeed correct. One must train their ears as well!🙈

  • @MsMigola
    @MsMigola ปีที่แล้ว

    :) have fun. Thats the secret of voilin )))) love your channel . Thanks

  • @martinneltner5813
    @martinneltner5813 ปีที่แล้ว

    My issue is finding an in-person teacher who will take on a beginner. I will consider going back to signing up with Julia. I used her and I am sorry I stopped. I will join this week thanks for this insight.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      Please do! I look forward to having as a member of the academy.

  • @user-re2ey4ti4v
    @user-re2ey4ti4v ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for your very gentle and very patient encouragement. I will share a true story. I wish it wasn't. It will tell you all you need to know.
    During lock down I decided, one day, I would sit in my garden . . .
    With my violin!
    I thought that was a brilliant idea! I'd never done it before. It was a beautiful sunny afternoon, the fresh air was beckoning and it offered the opportunity to actually DO something outside! Just what I needed to lift my spirits! (Thought she.)
    So, out I went. Sitting, poised and ready to begin (a little self conscious of my neighbours overhearing, admittedly, but so relieved to be out 'doing.' I began. . .
    Almost immediately my cat sprang out of nowhere, stopped at my feet, stared up at me for about 2 seconds . . .
    And fled!
    I play the piano. Violin is . . .
    Impossible! 😃
    But I love it sooo much! (I never imagined it was possible! But I do! Yes, it's unbearable hearing myself but my little violin holds such a place in my heart now that I have no alternative but to endure the excruciating noise and consequent disappointment every time I try to play!!!
    One day, eh . . . 🤔
    ♥️🎻🌹

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you for sharing. It does take time, but you got this!🥰

  • @DivaDeb1234
    @DivaDeb1234 ปีที่แล้ว

    Also people that are already very experienced to have been playing their whole lives and are very good at the professional level sometimes don't understand why you can't get it right away including teachers and they expect a lot more from you when you're not even ready but again that's the challenge that's why we love it

  • @axlcrush
    @axlcrush 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Awesome words of truth! I play both piano and violin(or try to play 😂)

  • @mamborickyclassicalmusicac4733
    @mamborickyclassicalmusicac4733 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wonderful

  • @BratRadBrag
    @BratRadBrag ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have chosen the right instrument then … i love the challenge ❤

  • @jcortese3300
    @jcortese3300 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    1. It's awkward and aggressively unergonomic and maintained in this state for no discernable reason.
    2. They refuse to use inlays for no discernable reason -- which do not at all prevent players from making the natural tuning adjustments needed to sound good.
    3. It sounds way better at a distance than it does right next to your head.

    • @zeniktorres4320
      @zeniktorres4320 ปีที่แล้ว

      Totally agree with points 1 and 2. Point 3, after 10 years of practice, I disagree. :) I like the sound now, because I finally can do vibrato nicely (well not in all position equally yet).

  • @johnaustin1825
    @johnaustin1825 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    It is difficult but I learned to play it at the age of 78!!

  • @ViolinHobby
    @ViolinHobby ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Very well said and well analyzed!!

  • @spockb1186
    @spockb1186 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I didn't regret nor give up when the violin is hard for me. Later on I got the flow going without a bump in the road. I know 40-50 songs in my 12 years playing.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      it is wonderful your perseverance paid off!

  • @annyowl833
    @annyowl833 ปีที่แล้ว

    Спасибо большое за эти слова! Они мне сейчас были очень нужны
    Чудесное видео ❤️

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You're very welcome. I am glad it helped. 🥰

  • @wakuwaku3190
    @wakuwaku3190 ปีที่แล้ว

    i love the challenge. i’m getting my violin next month and i cant wait to cry in despair 😂

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      😂😂😂😂😂 I am excited for you to get your violin. I wish you the best of luck!

  • @williambradford3627
    @williambradford3627 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent and very true! like your hairlikethis!!!

  • @Michelle-Smith
    @Michelle-Smith ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi Julia, how do you actually build in the muscle memory ?

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      repetition will build muscle memory. That is why we practice slowly and consistently.

  • @snowdrop1590
    @snowdrop1590 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This video offers excellent🎖 and ACCESSIBLE advice for an adult who is an absolute beginner, to START with.
    The video sets a realistic backdrop of know-how around what you might expect and experience with learning the violin.
    I would title this video as: 'Think You Want to Learn the Violin - Start Here'.
    I'm an absolute beginner still working out if I want to play the violin and trying to understand my key challenges.
    Challenge 1: My fingertips are too BIG. Never considered I had fat fingers before, but it appears I do as when trying to hold ONE string down at the narrow end of the fingerboard using the utmost tip of my finger, I tend accidentally to hold TWO strings down.🤔
    So perhaps I'll look for simple tunes with 'open notes' [no holding a string down] to start with. Which will hopefully stop me from getting quickly despondent.
    Challenge 2: What type of violin music is it my goal to learn how to play? Blues. Is it of any benefit learning to play the violin from the start in any 'particular or different' way to achieve this?
    Julia, thank you for your video and advice, it cheered me up.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      I love your title suggestion. I am happy you like the video and feel it offers quality advice. I have some simple beginner tunes on my site that you may like. You can find them here:violinspiration.com/free-violin-lessons-beginners-intermediates-online/#hash_filters=df
      And I have 2 on Blues and improvisation too!
      violinspiration.com/free-violin-lessons-beginners-intermediates-online/#hash_filters=df
      I wish you the best of luck on your musical journey.

  • @jairofornazier7737
    @jairofornazier7737 ปีที่แล้ว

    I agree with her.

  • @johnmurdoch8534
    @johnmurdoch8534 ปีที่แล้ว

    I picked up my violin again recently after playing a child for a year or two (over 20 years ago) but while my violin is in the shop, i also picked up mandolin. I enjoy both and make time for both but fear that not focusing on one or the other may ultimately mean i dont improve on either. Is it generally a bad idea to attempt two instruments when one is fiddle.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Many people learn more than one instrument at the same time.

  • @AmandaViolinGirl
    @AmandaViolinGirl ปีที่แล้ว

    I have never played a brass instrument but I have seen them being played. Saxophone is brass but actually part of the woodwind instrument and I wouldn't think it very difficult because it is similar to clarinet a reed instrument and I have played a clarinet once before. I think the trombone very difficult because there are no valves on the trombone and people have to use their ears for pitch so the most difficult of the brass. The trumpet I would also think quite difficult because out of only 3 valves you have to get a lot of notes out of it. I have never played any of those brass instruments but by the look of them they certainly look very difficult.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      it is difficult to learn anything new, especially a new musical instrument. You are right. 😃

  • @xjsabcd2947
    @xjsabcd2947 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    a beginner's neighbor: who's sawing wood?

  • @airtioteclint
    @airtioteclint ปีที่แล้ว

    Watching this makes me appreciate that lady who covered Van Halen"s Eruption with a violin even more.

  • @abhibalakkethks
    @abhibalakkethks ปีที่แล้ว

    I love you teacher ❤️ if you were my mother 😘🥰

  • @GwladYrHaf
    @GwladYrHaf ปีที่แล้ว

    I think is very dificult and definately on par with a flamenco guitar, comparing the two, the intonation challenge much much is harder on the violin, the bow is indeed difficult, but not as hard as the left hand approach on the flamenco, but it is much harder than the plectrum approach, as for the chord complexity, the violin is a bit easier.
    These in my opinion are relative easier/harder concepts, both in reality are rock hard, and I have total respect for anyone who takes of the challenge.
    There is something very sonorous about the violin that is missing on the guitar, given the glissando capabilities as well as the sustained tone capabilities.
    I agree about the first year learning curve on the violin compared to other instruments.
    It is a wonderful challenge, and I hold anyone who can play in high esteem

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      What a great comparison. I would not have thought of flamenco guitar. Thanks for sharing!😊

  • @strawberryflavoredclouds7287
    @strawberryflavoredclouds7287 ปีที่แล้ว

    4:34 Heh, my hands shake naturally so I’ve had to find strategies around it. Usually I end up putting too much force, but it sounds better than a shaky bow.

  • @jgunther3398
    @jgunther3398 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    one of my violin teachers said the less there is between you and the instrument (key mechanisms, valves, electronics, etc) the more expressive potential the instrument has. i would add violin has nothing between you and the instrument, and the expressive potential that isn't under control is heard as wildness

  • @fd-br6uw
    @fd-br6uw ปีที่แล้ว

    Though the violin ist difficult to learn it's not more difficult than orher Instruments (exept recorder). Piano and guitar are easy to start with but very difficult to truly master wheareas string instruments are difficult at the beginning but once you mastered the basics it becomes very enjoyable.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That is a great observation. Thanks for sharing with us!😊

  • @chuheihkg
    @chuheihkg ปีที่แล้ว

    I am being told most of people, can performance almost instinctly. I rarely ask why around these strings , but how treating these strings. I am still naive with string instruments, what I can do, is trying to remember some shapes to get through.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      😊I wish you the best of luck on your musical journey. You got this!

    • @chuheihkg
      @chuheihkg ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Violinspiration I apperciate that, I am a keyboard player. If I like to ,I may try restarting again.

  • @leopardtiger1022
    @leopardtiger1022 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Yes indeed very difficult instrument. Every day before I start practicing I must tune my violin. I am still trying to get a reasonably sounding vibrato. My violin holding without a shoulder rest is my challenge and I am still experimenting with it. I believe shoulder rest adds to the mass and will affect the sound. I experiment with different positions of the bridge. Sometimes close to the neck when length of strings increase and produces a mellower deeper sound but then finger positions change. I can't stretch that long. So I shift bridge closer to the finger board, then height of strings from fingerboard increases. Like this many things to try out with violin. Trills like the way great masters play in Beethoven Cadenza which sounds like a shimmering of the tones or as in Caprice 6 is another big challenge. Looks easy but extremely difficult. For me going beyond the first position shifting, oh God many variables and many challenges. I am self taught and practicing for many years daily only max one hour now I am 82 years live in India love Paganini compositions and wish to play some phrases, trying double stops. Finally I must say violin is so useful to communicate with the soul it is a medium for meditation to stabilise the mind torn between various thoughts and feelings in the Kopfkino which is always playing inside the brain whether I like or not it keeps playing.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for sharing a bit about yourself, your challenges and your love for the violins expression! 😊

  • @AsadAli-jc5tg
    @AsadAli-jc5tg ปีที่แล้ว

    If you're fed up with violin 🎻 and it's learning curve, but still love how it sounds, the good news is that you can replace violin with a chromatic harmonica, it produces similar sounds but much easier to play as the only thing you've to be worry about on a chromatic harmonica is mouth positioning and hand-mouth co-ordination.

  • @vagabond197979
    @vagabond197979 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I wish I had seen this video BEFORE I started playing violin. :)

  • @zena1022
    @zena1022 ปีที่แล้ว

    I played for five years and gave up for 17 years and now I commit myself to find the real sound of violin. The depth of disappointment and frustration is immense.

  • @sinbatsiraseranant1241
    @sinbatsiraseranant1241 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    And after everything that you explained. Even if you mastered all of these basics, people still spent their entire lives mastering different techniques to be able to play various written famous compositions (concertos, sonata). I perform very well at gigs with standard compositions for quartet but still need much practice for compositions that require demanding technical skills.

    • @Violinspiration
      @Violinspiration  9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I hope my lesson was encouraging for you.