Question 1

I would like my child to learn the violin. Do they need their 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

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 in the Bath area that I recommend are:  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  See our blog post and FAQ Page for more supporting information.

Question 3

What size violin does my child need?

Accepted Answer

For children,  it is really important to get the right size Violin. I can give advice on this at your child's 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  2 Good quality strings   3 Rozin   4 Music Stand - used to securely hold your music while you play your instrument.  5 Practice Notebook:  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.

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.

Lucy Pegler - Violinist and Music Teacher

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

What size violin do I need?

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

What happens in a first lesson?

Do you provide music?

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

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

What is the ISM?