A Dream, A Violin, A Lifelong Pursuit | Guest Post

What Inspired Me to Play the Violin.

I always think back to the time when my interest in playing the violin was born. I'd say it was innate part of me but it probably isn't at the same time. I love music, and I grew up spending most of my childhood days being jealous of kids who had their own instruments. I grew up walking to school - passing by music studios - listening to those who were enrolled in music lessons. Some may say that they have been inspired by famous violinists or may be encouraged by the recruiting instructors for an orchestra. Some probably became inspired after being enlisted by parents to music lessons. Well, I am not born to musical parents nor to a family who encourages playing of instruments.

In my case, it was a dream...violin dreaming

That dream drew me closer to the violin. While I was asleep, I dreamt of an orchestra playing Johann Sebastian Bach's Chaconne from Partita. I was mesmerized. The soloist was so emotive in her playing that I felt as if she was playing right to me. For a small stringed instrument, I never knew that a violin could produce a whole world of powerful feelings and deepest thoughts. It felt like an extreme pleasure to just simply listen and be amazed. Right there and then, I knew that I wanted to play the violin. From that day onwards, I lived my life thinking about a violin and having one. I told my family about it, but they just told me I'm crazy for wanting to have a violin and for passing by music stores every now and then. My mom even said to me that my desire in wanting to play a violin is just a case of successful brainwashing. That didn't stop me, by 12th grade, I cracked open my piggy bank with all my savings from my daily school allowance. It wasn't enough, but with a kind mans help from the music store, I was able to buy my very own violin. Until now, I still don't have the means to be formally educated in violin playing or be enrolled in a music school, but with my friend's help, I was able to get free private lessons. I still have a long way to run, but I think it is all worth it. Now, not only do I love how classy and sophisticated the violin sounds but I also discovered that I enjoy playing.

Once, it was just a dream… a dream that turned out to be a lifelong pursuit.

Playing is a Lifelong Pursuit: How to Stay Motivated

The dream to master violin playing is as enjoying as it can be challenging. In the early days of learning, your desire to learn can turn into hate at any time. To help you stay motivated, be sure to make practicing the violin fun, find rest in between playing, and play what you love. Enjoy Practicing If you approach your practice sessions with an attitude of ‘just finishing the lessons’, you won’t enjoy playing. Having positive approach in practicing will help you enjoy the music and have so much fun. Find Time to Rest Resting is not being a practice wus. The best way to keep yourself motivated is not pushing yourself over the edge. Ensure that you are taking care of yourself with enough rest, nutrition, and hydration because recovery and being healthy is part of the training. Remember, lengthy practice times, without rest, can actually be detrimental to progress. Play What You Love Play what you love! As far as I know, it is hard to do what you don’t love doing. The same way goes with violin playing. Practicing won’t feel like a grind if you enjoy the sounds you make.

Developing your playing skills

I know I’m not a virtuoso but let me advise you this: Always be on the lookout to develop your violin playing skills. Like any other instrument, violin playing requires skill, technique, and determination. And to develop these, practice is crucial. Aside from the tips mentioned above to keep you motivated, regular and effective practice is essential. To improve your practice time and get the most out of your training:
  • Incorporate scales as warm-up routines
  • Mind the Basics
  • Ensure accurate fingering
  • Master string change
  • Work on your ear training
  • Remain mentally focused
Many studies show that deliberate practice is far more beneficial than longer hours of unfocused, rote playing. NORMANS THINK: Like what you've read? You can read more of Austins work at consordini.com. Even better, (in our opinion,) Consordini also have a YouTube page: Consordini Musical Instruments