The art of playing the violin is comprised of many different components or individual techniques. You must be able to select your own instrument and identify each of its parts. You’ll need to know how to string your violin and how to keep it in tune. You should be willing to establish a regimented practice routine. You will need to interview and select a qualified instructor. You should also know how to maintain your violin.
Finding your own violin is the first step in the process of how to learn violin techniques. While beginners models are available in the 200 to 300 dollar price range, can also find vintage violins worth multiple tens of thousands of dollars. If you had determined to purchase a used professional cello price you need to know how to look it over for damage and excessive wear. It is recommended that you find a full color chart or picture of a violin that identifies all of its parts.
Starting with the scroll, check for dents and cracks. Look at the peg box and the pegs. Are the pegs tight or are they sloppy in the box? Examine the fingerboard for grooves caused by string pressure. Are the joints were the components of the violin come together tight and secure? Look at the bridge. Does its base rest firmly on the body of the violin? This is extremely important when it comes to producing quality tone. Check the fine tuning screws making sure they all operate the way they are designed. Finally, look over the front and back of the body of the violin, making sure that there are no cracks or excessive damage.
You’ll need to learn how to tune your violin as this is a critical component of how to learn violin techniques. The easiest way to tune a violin is with a piano or electronic keyboard. The violin purists, however, use a 440 Hz A tuning fork. Whenever technique you decide to use, you generally tune one string using an outside source, and then tune the remaining strings.
When establishing your regimented practice routine you should be a realistic in setting your goals. Most instructors recommend from ½ to 2 hours per day be spent in practice. Always keep in mind that there is never a shortcut to practice. Is it not amazing that after many years of concerted education, doctors and lawyers still “practice” their discipline?
When you first determined how to learn violin techniques, you knew that selecting a qualified instructor was to be an important part of the process. Choose your instructor wisely; you are entering into a long-term relationship. Don’t be afraid to ask the instructor questions about their personal likes and dislikes when it comes to violin music.
Last, but not least, is the maintenance of your violin. Never use furniture polish on your instrument. Using a soft cloth, wipe it down with an instrument grade violin polish. With the ammunition you have gained here you are well on your way to how to learn violin techniques.