Question 1

I would like/my child would like to learn the violin. Do I need my own instrument?

Accepted Answer

Yes, they will need their own violin. You can either buy a Violin or rent one for a small monthly or termly fee. Renting one is a good option if you would like more time to consider whether you would like to continue learning, rather than buying an instrument straight away.

Question 2

Where can I get a Violin from and what do I need to look for when purchasing?

Accepted Answer

When selecting a Violin, it is important to find one  that is properly set up with good strings. It can be so discouraging if you have poorly set up equipment. Not only will it sound poor, it will also make Violin playing more difficult!

Specialist Violin shops such as the 'Bristol Violin Shop' set up their violins well, improving playability and sound. A good Violin shop can make sure bridges are at the right height, pegs turn freely to make tuning easy, and the sound post is in a good position. It is well worth investing in good strings, as these produce a much warmer beautiful tone.  (look under 'what else do I need?' FAQ).

I do have a small selection of Violins you can try for your very first lesson. I can then advise which size that you will need.

Buying/Renting a Violin for a Beginner

Beginners don’t usually start with an expensive violin, especially when you have just started lessons. The quality of beginner violins varies, but ones that are set up well with a good set of strings can sound great.

Violins come in different sizes, depending on the size of a child. It’s important that they are fitted with the correct size, otherwise violin playing will be more difficult and uncomfortable, and therefore not as enjoyable!

I will give advice on which size violin to get in your/child’s first lesson.

Renting a Violin

This can be a good option if you/your child are just starting lessons and are not yet sure and just want to ‘try and see if you like it’.

There are various instrument hire shops/companies that offer good quality violins, which are set up well and can deliver to your home. They also come with a case and bow. As a guide, monthly fees range from £15, and they normally ask for a small deposit with a minimum commitment of 3 months. You also have the option to buy the instrument later and most rental companies include the money from the rent that you have already paid in the total cost to buy.

Rental companies that I recommend are:

www.musicalinstrumenthire.com(http://www.musicalinstrumenthire.com/)

Buying a second-hand student Violin

Some music shops sell second hand violins, but it’s well worth looking at sites such as eBay and gumtree. This can be the cheapest option, and you can sometimes find a very good violin that is low priced, but make sure that you are buying a violin that will not need repairing!

Always carefully check the condition of the violin - go for one that has plenty of photos (if you are looking online) and ask questions if you need to.

1. Is the body in good condition? How does it look overall? Are there any cracks or openings in the seams – if so these will need to be repaired and it can be expensive. Any cracks/holes will also affect the sound of the instrument.

2. The fingerboard should be straight, smooth and even.

3. Is the instrument set up well? Is the bridge correctly placed and not warped? Also check the sound post inside the instrument is not missing or loose.

4. Do the tuning pegs fit into the holes well - do they turn smoothly and easily? If you cannot turn the pegs at all then that is not a good sign!

5. The bow - old rosin on the bow can easily be removed and cleaned, but a bow with very few hairs left is likely to cost much more to re-hair than it is worth. A good new bow will cost from £30.00 - £40.00

6. Strings – a set of good quality strings will improve the tone of the violin. Very thin old steel strings will not have such a good sound. Replacing these with a good quality set of strings such as Pirastro Tonica (£25.00), D’Addario Prelude (£18.50) would be well worth the price.

If you are not sure about the condition of a violin, the price or anything else then I’ll be happy to take look!

Buying a new student Violin

A new violin for Beginner - intermediate level can cost anything from £100 - £800 Good makes are, Stentor (I or II), Conservatoire, Primavera, Andantino. 
Fine Violins cost between £500 to £1000s plus. The higher priced Violin does not necessarily mean it is a better Violin! It all comes down to personal preference. All Violins can sound different, so it is worth trying out a few and choose one you like the sound and feel of.

Shops - Try the: ‘Bristol Violin Shop' in Maudlin Street or in London ‘Guiviers, ‘Chimes music shop’ or ‘the old violin workshop’.

See our blog post (https://www.lucypegler.co.uk/post/how-to-choose-the-right-violin-when-beginning-lessons)for supporting information.

Question 3

What size violin do I need?

Accepted Answer

For children,  it is really important to get the right size Violin. I can give advice on this at your first lesson.
Violins come in a variety of sizes from full size 4/4,  to 3/4,  1/2,  1/4,  1/8 and even 16th size!

You can measure your child's arm length to get the correct size violin. Measure from the base of the neck to the wrist, with left arm completely straight. (no bend in elbow or wrist and not over extended). Shoulder relaxed

Measurements in Inches - (from base of neck to wrist):
1/16 size: 13 1/4 inches or less
1/10 size: 14 1/4 inches
1/8 size: 15 1/4 inches
1/4 size: 17 1/4 inches
1/2 size: 19 inches
3/4 size: 20 1/2 inches
Full size: 21 1/4 inches

Measurements in centimeters:
1/16 size: 33 1/2 cm or less
1/10 size: 36 cm
1/8 size: 38 1/2 cm
1/4 size: 44 cm
1/2 size: 48 1/2 cm 
3/4 size: 52 cm
Full size: 54 cm

Question 4

I've got my violin - what else do I need?

Accepted Answer

Here are some of the most important Violin accessories that you will need:

1 Shoulder rest
A shoulder rest is designed to enhance comfort while playing the violin, by increasing shoulder height and preventing the instrument from slipping which can cause tension in the left hand. We are all different in size, so what may suit one person may not suit another! It is a good idea to go to a shop and try a few to see which one feels more comfortable or I have a selection of shoulder rests for you to try in the lesson and can advise which one to get.
There are 3 types of shoulder rest:
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/b90300_bac54e18f4cc418391b0cdc2162acc9c~mv2.jpg

1 Clip on this has feet that attach to the rim of the violin, such as the one here on the right called a 'viva la musica'. they are around £20
2 Air cushion (called 'play on air'), this is slightly more narrow and suitable for younger children
3 Foam again narrow in width and suitable for younger children attached with bands.

2 Good quality strings

Getting the right strings can make a big difference in sound and last a long time, so they are really worth investing in. make sure to get the right size for the violin. for example - ¼ size strings for ¼ size violin. and make sure you get either a ball end or loop end. Ask me if you're not sure which one you need.
Here are some reasonably priced strings I recommend:
Piratso Tonica
Astrea
Prelude
Larsen
Dominant

3 Rozin 
Rosin is used on the bow hair. It coats the bow hairs with a powdery, sticky substance that will grip the strings and create friction as the bow moves across the strings. This friction causes the string to vibrate and produce sound. Without rosin, you will not hear much sound! so it is an essential for playing any bowed instrument.
Rosin
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/b90300_e4fbc291fba0411691c4e8be4a963ee4~mv2.jpg
Rosin can break quite easily if dropped, so I recommend getting one attached to a cloth to protect it with a cardboard box. Metal/plastic boxes boxes tend to get stuck together!

4 Music Stand - used to securely hold your music while you play your instrument.

5 Practice Notebook:
This is great tool for communication between teacher, pupil and parent/carer. It records details of what we have worked on in the lesson, with advise/exercises on any problems that come up, aiding efficient and effective practice at home. A practice book can also help track your progress, highlighting what you have achieved and rewards given - such special stickers!
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/b90300_b3aad483d6ec44ed87c45d63e2f2d307~mv2.jpg

6 Dust cloth – a cloth to clean and polish your violin. Rosin tends to accumulate under the bridge!

7 Folder or music bag - to put all your music, sheets and notebook in.
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/b90300_633b7b64937b41bc99bee8cfb1b0088b~mv2.jpg

Question 5

What happens in a first lesson?

Accepted Answer

At your first lesson, we'll begin getting to know each other - I'll ask questions so that I can understand your musical goals, your current level of experience, and what you hope to achieve through your lessons. We'll also talk about music styles that you particularly enjoy.

1 If you are a complete beginner:
We look the different parts of the violin and bow (I will have a spare one you can borrow for this session) and learn how to hold the violin and bow, learn the names of the strings, an introduction to Instrument positioning, the bow hold, basic posture, and playing your first very simple tune using the open strings. I will then advise which violin size to get, along with music book and anything else you may need for your lessons.

2 For students who are the more experienced player, we start off talking through your previous lessons and practice sessions. success's and any problems that you have had that you need help with. You can then play through any technical exercises and pieces that you have brought with you, for feedback, advice and encouragement!

Wrapping up at then end of the lesson, we'll summarise what has been covered in your lesson with what to work on, and adding reminders your notebook, for your practice goals in the next week.

Question 6

Do you provide music?

Accepted Answer

Once you start lessons, I will recommend the music books that will best support your learning journey. I can order music for you to purchase and invoice you for the music, or if you prefer you can order the music yourself and I will send you the links of the books, so that you can  purchase them from music shops online.

Question 7

What length lesson do I need and how often are the lessons?

Accepted Answer

Weekly lessons are taught during the school term, which typically results in 11 - 12 lessons per double term (there are 6 terms per school year of at least 6 weeks). Lessons outside these times (such as school holidays and weekends) can also be arranged.
Lesson durations:
30-minute lesson for beginners up to grade 4
40-minute lesson for those needing extra time in the weeks leading up to        performances and exams.                                        
45-minute lesson for grades 4 – 5
45 - 60 minute lesson for grades 6 – 8
 Paired lessons – 30 minutes

Lessons for Adults: Flexible arrangements are available for adult students, who are not able to attend regularly (example because of work commitments) on an ad hoc basis, meaning lessons as and when needed for  30 and 60 minutes. Some adults may wish to have "refresher" lessons for a limited period of time.

Question 8

How can I support my son/daughter with practice at home?

Accepted Answer

Supporting your daughter/son on their music journey

Music can be a wonderful way to enrich your family life and foster your child's development and wellbeing.  Studies have shown that music has many benefits - having a positive impact socially and academically as well as on mental health and wellbeing. You don't have to have had music lessons yourself to help your children. There may be times when even with our best efforts and intentions, fostering our children’s musical development presents some challenges.

Why do we need to practice?

The process of learning to play an instrument is no different to learning to read, to speak a new language, or even training to run a 5k! Without practice between lessons, progress will be slow. Practice is crucial because our brains and fingers need repetition so that we can play music with ease and enjoyment. Frequent practice builds muscle memory, allowing muscles to 'remember' the actions they perform repeatedly. If time is limited on some days, focus on practicing the passages that are difficult rather than the bars that are easy. This also helps speed progress.

Lucy's Practice Tips:

1 Set aside a suitable time in the day where there are no distractions. Stick with the same time/routine/room at home if possible. For example, after coming home from school, have a snack, drink and rest. Then start at around 4.30pm. Leave the violin/piano and music out.

2 Refer to the practice book and see what has been set for practice. Ask your teacher if you don’t understand something, or need more help. Engage with your child's teacher when you need to.

3 Reward practice! - think of incentives - eg if practice has happened for 3 times, on different days in a row give a special treat for your child! (or yourself if you are an adult learning.)

4 Try working on the tricky bits first. especially if it is a busy day and there is a lack of time. Ask ‘what is difficult in this piece?’ then focus on practising that bit rather than what you can already play. This is the best way to progress on that piece you have has always wanted to play!

5 Parents and Carers - Always be calm and encouraging. Show an interest in what has been achieved during your childs practice, but without judgement. Point out what you thought was good first of all, then give feedback using constructive comments (rather than being negative, which can impede a child's confidence!).  Understand that there will be some challenging days - and that's OK.

6 You could sometimes encourage your child to play one of their pieces for family after practise.

7 Make sure you have all the correct equipment you need for practice music stand (for violin), practice book, music, pencil)

8 Length of Practice sessions I recommend for Beginners are 10 - 15mins, 4 - 5 times per week. Ask me for practice times from beyond this level or when preparing for an exam or performance.

9 Create a Musical Environment:Listen to music at home or look at videos of great Violinists and Pianists for inspiration! Take your child to live concerts if possible. Nurture their enthusiasm!

10 Keep your eye on the goal - whether it's performing to family and friends, playing in a group with other musicians, at a festival, small concert, exam, or to simply learning to play a tune you/they have always wanted to play.
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11 With younger children from age 5 - 7 - supervise their practice sessions. Allow them the freedom to experiment, as "play" significantly contributes to effective learning.

12 Little and often is much better than one big, long session once a week. 
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13 Investigate lack of practice: When practice is lacking, explore the reasons calmly and positively. Even the most accomplished musicians go through difficult practice periods. Accept occasional difficulties: recognize that there will be days when practice is challenging.

14 Helping to support older children & teens, is different to helping younger children. I would refrain from sitting in the whole time on your older children's practice. You can support them at a slight distance by letting them practice independently, while still taking a positive interest such as; asking them what the teacher has set for the week, if you can listen to them play a piece, scales, or giving an encouraging nudge if practise has been lacking.

Question 9

What is the ISM?

Accepted Answer

The ISM stands for the 'Independent Society of Musicians' . The ISM is the UK's professional body for Musicians made up of performers, teachers, and composers/arrangers. It was set up in 1882 to promote the importance of musicians and to protect the rights of those working within the music industry.

All ISM members confirm their professional status when they join the society. This means you can rest assured that you are working with a proven music professional when you have lessons with an ISM member.