Frequently Asked Questions- In-person violin lessons vs online
When is a good age to start learning violin?
Generally speaking, children about 5 to 6 years old can start learning. This is usually when their cognitive and fine motor skills have been developed to a level that's suitable to begin. For beginners, we strongly recommend in-person violin lessons.
Am I too old to start?
Never too old to start. Our eldest beginner started when he was in his 60s. We provide violin classes for students from beginner to advanced level.
Do you only teach beginners?
We have students ranging from absolute novices all the way to Licentiate level candidates. Not only that we have students on all skill levels, our current student age ranges between 5 and 67 years old. Our motto is, "as long as you're willing to learn, we're here to help you".
What would I need to begin lessons?
You will need the following items: a properly sized violin outfit (violin, bow and case), a shoulder rest of appropriate size, a piece of decent quality rosin, a lined notebook, a pencil, an eraser and a music stand (only for home practises).
You may choose to rent or to purchase the violin outfit from local stores.
Your very first method book will be provided for free by the studio, but you will be responsible for the subsequent ones.
How often should I practise?
All students are encouraged to maintain a regular, daily practise routine that should be at least as long as their lesson time. For example, your practise session should be a minimum of 60 minutes if your weekly lesson is 60 minutes long.
Quoting an old teacher friend of mine, "...you'd only need to practise on the days that you've eaten a meal..."
Are violins expensive?
You could possibly purchase a violin outfit for around $200+tax, pending on the size that you'd need. For full size (4/4) instruments, you could spend many thousands depending on quality and/or intrinsic investment value such as antique masterpieces. But our advice would be first speak to someone from a reputable shop to see what the different choices are, and only spend within your predetermined budget. Renting can be an option, especially for smaller children.
Do students have to participate in any other activities besides the lessons?
Students are highly encouraged to participate in our annual recital, attempt graded level examinations and various competitions or music festivals. However, none of these are mandatory activities. The only mandatory activities are the weekly lessons.
What do I do if I need to reschedule a lesson due to illness or other reasons?
As long as you give us 24 hours advance notice for any reason that you have to reschedule a lesson, we will work with you to find a makeup time slot within the same week.
For sudden illness or emergencies (less than 24 hours notice), we will do our best to accommodate your situation.
I can't find any answer on this page for my question...
No worries, just send us an email with your specific questions and we'll try our best to help you find the answers.