How to Start to Play the Violin at 50

Even though most violin players start playing the instrument as a child or teenager, it is absolutely possible to start playing as an older adult. You can take private lessons, group instruction, online tutorials or a combination of all three to learn the techniques for playing the violin. Committing the time, patience and practice necessary to start playing the violin at age 50 can be a rewarding endeavor.

Things You'll Need

• Instructional guides

Instructions

How to Start to Play the Violin at 50

1. Study the mechanics of the violin. Familiarize yourself with the bow, which is held in the right hand by its heavier, weighted end (the frog). Memorize the names of the instrument's four strings: G (lowest), D (low), A (high) and E (highest). Finally, learn how to tune the instrument as this will be crucial to its sound quality. This is done by turning the string's corresponding wooden peg clockwise for a higher pitch, and counter-clockwise for a lower pitch.

2. If you don't already know how, learn to read music. At the very least you will need to read treble clef as most violin music is written in this clef. Find a private teacher, friend or instruction manuals to help you. Manuals can be purchased at most music and/or bookstores.

3. Perform daily neck, shoulder and wrist stretches. Playing the violin is often taxing on these specific muscles. Shrug your shoulders up and down, turn your head from left to right as well as forwards and backwards. Roll your hands in a circle to loosen your wrists.

4. Learn how to properly hold the violin. The violin should be held in your left hand by its neck, using your thumb and the palm of your hand to support most of its weight. The rest of your fingers should curl lightly around the fingerboard without pressing the strings too hard.

5. Bring the violin to rest on your left shoulder while drawing the bow across each string. Once the movements are comfortable for you, work on refining your precision and accuracy of bowing and fingering the strings simultaneously. If necessary, wear wrist braces, which will support your wrists and avoid straining your carpal muscles.

Tips & Warnings

• Private teachers and small lesson groups are incredibly beneficial. See Resources to find teachers in your area. Many cities have civic orchestras that practice and perform year-round. These are great ways to meet both new and experienced violinists.

• If playing the violin is painful in any way for you, consult your physician before continuing as you may be exacerbating an existing condition.

Resources

• Learn How to Read Treble Clef Online Free
• Find a Private Violin Instructor in Your Area
• Online Violin Tutorials