AIBU to think I could learn the violin?

Heavymetaldetector · 28/02/2021 14:04

I'm a music teacher and I love teaching adults. It's nice to be able to have an adult conversation for one, but also adults take things seriously and not for granted and like to have a bit of fun with it too! Absolutely give it a go. I'm doing online lessons at the moment and there are plenty of people out there doing the same, if you want to have a go then do it!

CalmConfident · 28/02/2021 14:05

Go for it! My auntie started playing at 40 with zero musical history and loved it, plays in an amateur orchestra

Parkandride · 28/02/2021 14:06

Ooh I hope it goes well, it I was to learn an instrument it would be the violin too

00100001 · 28/02/2021 14:08

Go for it!

Original poster

TrialOfStyle · 28/02/2021 14:14

This is encouraging. Thank you! My friend said I was crazy when I told her, but I just feel like I'm missing a hobby that gets me away from computer screens and involved in something else.

@Heavymetaldetector Are there any good websites to look for teachers? I'm really not sure where to start right now.

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LunaHeather · 28/02/2021 14:15

OP will you let us know how you get on?

I wasn't allowed to learn as a child but always wanted to. (Before anyone asks, my parents thought it was too much on top of everything else and I can see why).

I do wonder if it will be okay for my neck though. I can barely hold my shoulders after a heavy we

LunaHeather · 28/02/2021 14:15

Oops

Heavy weights session.

talkingdeadscot · 28/02/2021 14:15

I started last year when I was 58 and love it. Don't get me wrong, it's hard and I feel like I'm a bit rubbish but the enjoyment I get out weighs everything else. My plan is to join the community orchestra in a few years (if they still exist). Just do it, you won't regret it but you might regret not trying.

Original poster

TrialOfStyle · 28/02/2021 14:19

Yes! I'll keep you updated. It gives me some accountability too . I was reading something that it should just feel comfortable on your neck and not strain, so I think it just takes a bit of getting used to (but obviously I have no idea whatsoever!).

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Original poster

TrialOfStyle · 28/02/2021 14:19

@talkingdeadscot

I started last year when I was 58 and love it. Don't get me wrong, it's hard and I feel like I'm a bit rubbish but the enjoyment I get out weighs everything else. My plan is to join the community orchestra in a few years (if they still exist). Just do it, you won't regret it but you might regret not trying.

How have you found your improvement over the past year? Do you look back and notice the difference from when you first started?

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MrsElijahMikaelson1 · 28/02/2021 14:23

The most important thing is to be aware of your posture and don’t slump as it can create issues. It is hard but persevere and you will get there I’m sure. It is a beautiful instrument-the only problem is that the better you get, the more expensive an instrument you need to achieve the sound you want. Also when it comes to orchestra remember ear plugs as it can get a bit loud!

CMeredithC · 28/02/2021 14:25

Professional musician here, I also teach a bit on the side. It’s definitely possible to pick up an instrument at your age. I have a colleague who’s currently teaching a 72yo beginner.

I recommend musicteachers.co.uk - you can filter by postcode and other criteria. Look for someone who mentions teaching adults in their description, preferably with a degree in music or similar qualifications. Don’t be afraid to contact those still studying - young people are often the most enthusiastic and willing to try out different things until you find a method that works for you. Good luck OP and enjoy it!!! Music is the best!

talkingdeadscot · 28/02/2021 14:26

Definitely. In the first year I've gone from absolutely nothing and having stickers for finger guidance to being able to read simple music, sticker removal (a big moment), being able to tune my violin and apply rosin and being able to play simple tunes and lots of scales. I don't think I've got my instrument placement quite right as I have shoulder problems but that might be because I've had several operations. Honestly, even the simple tunes are such an achievement. I see it as learning another language which is great brain exercise.

EileenGC · 28/02/2021 14:27

PS especially on the violin, good technique is key. Your teacher should not let your posture, bow grip etc out of sight at any point. It can get boring but good technique is so important in the early stages.

OnlyHerefortheBiscuits · 28/02/2021 14:48

@TrialOfStyle

I'm 33. Absolutely no music history whatsoever. No idea what I'm doing. Not even sure where to begin without being able to attend face to face lessons. But I've ordered a student violin to give it a go.

Am I being ridiculous here? I know it's one of the harder instruments to learn, especially as an adult learner. I've being watching youtube videos and I'm both excited and really intimidated. Has anyone else picked up a musical instrument as an adult?

OP, this is really exciting!!!!!!!!!! Ten exclamation marks exciting 😁

I’m also 33 years old and I started learning the Cello aged 29.

It is categorically the BEST decision I have ever made. My entire life makes sense, now.

You are correct in that bowed strings are notoriously tricky, but they are in my opinion, the most beautifully expressive.

Teachers adore teaching adult students so don’t worry about that. Orchestras are heaps of giggles, so is playing chamber music with friends, duets with friends....all of those things are within your reach.

I hope you go for it! Have a look on musicteachers.co.uk

BoffinMum · 28/02/2021 14:54

I've taught so many adult beginners and they learn quicker than children as long as there's at least 20 minutes' practice a minimum of five days a week.

I am a member of the Incorporated Society of Musicians and we have a database of teachers that can be searched locally. Everyone is trained and qualified and uses standard contracts.

SomeRandomerOnBumsnet · 28/02/2021 14:57

Definitely. I took up the violin when I was 40, its hard but v rewarding. My current instrument is broken so I’m going to treat myself to a better standard violin next, something second hand. I have real problems with tuning, and I have been told that the better quality instruments are easier to tune. One of the most important things to learn is bow position, handling and placement, so do loads of practicing with that, it really makes a difference to how the instrument sounds

I had a wonderful tutor, a super talented student from the Royal Academy of Music, but I moved to the countryside from London and haven’t found anyone to replace him.

NorthernBirdAtHeart · 28/02/2021 15:09

Absolutely go for it!
I’ve played the piano since I was a child, dabbled with the violin, amongst other instruments as a teen, and taught myself the guitar in my 20’s.

Learning and playing music, is one of the most joyful things in life as far as I’m concerned!
Good luck and enjoy!

KateF · 28/02/2021 15:20

I say go for it OP! I started with a recorder at 5, have up to Grade 7 flute and a good O Level in music and playing has been a joy all my life. I would have continued to A Level but parents weren't on board sadly. I haven't played for a few years due to illness but am going to start again. I would love to find an orchestra to join. I've always wanted to learn a stringed instrument and piano as well.

ekidmxcl · 28/02/2021 15:21

You might be able to and you might not. You’ll just have to give it a go and see how you go. Adults sometimes have a better idea of the continual work needed.

DinoGreen · 28/02/2021 15:25

I can’t help re learning as an adult as I started at 6, but playing the violin has brought me such joy over the years. Join an amateur orchestra or group as soon as you can, making music with other people is the best. There are a range of groups out there for those of differing abilities. I’ve made so many friends through music and a number of them did not learn until adulthood and have reached a good standard so it can be done.

OutrageousFlavourLikeFreesias · 28/02/2021 15:27

Of course you can learn! Do be aware, though, that you'll sound fairly horrible for quite a long time (I learned as a child and until you get to about Grade Four standard, it's...hard to listen to). This is 100% normal and doesn't mean you can't play, it's just part of the process. Enjoy and good luck!

SirenSays · 28/02/2021 15:33

You should absolutely go for it! Practice makes perfect so keep going and you'll get the hang of it. That's what I keep telling myself anyway, I plan on picking one up to learn when I move house. My walls are paper thin, I couldn't do that to my neighbours haha. Have you seen Lindsey Stirling on YouTube?

peak2021 · 28/02/2021 15:36

I hope you go for it and are successful. Good luck.

Original poster

TrialOfStyle · 28/02/2021 15:44

I've spend the past half hour on musicteachers.co.uk and there are so many teachers locally. I had no idea! I'm going through their individual websites at the moment to try and gauge what will be best suited to me.
I'm now also wondering if I rope my year old into this as well - I'm sure he'll be desperate to get his hands on the violin when he sees it .

Yes, to Lindsey Stirling! Between her and Taylor Davis, I've been absolutely fascinated and in love with modern takes on the violin.

Luckily my house is detached, but with summer coming and windows open I'm already wincing a bit

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