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How to Play the Violin

Learn how to play the violin in these free video music lessons, including an introduction to violin for beginner students, how to tune a violin, care for the instrument and playing tips & techniques.

Series Summary

Music is one of the primary forms of communication on Earth. Whether the use of tones and melodies developed before, after, or in conjunction with spoken language is unknown; yet music is unique in that it helps us to talk to each other in ways that language cannot achieve. It creates a connection between people that is not limited by time, distance, or relationship; a song can speak to anyone, anywhere. That’s why music continually changes and grows, is still loved and still proliferates. Music is a living language.

The violin might be considered one of the dialects of that language. Featured largely in classical music, the violin, or fiddle, is a four-string instrument tuned in perfect fifths. It is related to the double bass, cello, and viola in construction and sound, though it produces the highest in pitch of that family.

The violin traces its roots back to the early 1500s in Italy. There was a time when violin makers, called “luthiers,” introduced a number of quality instruments to the market. Some noted manufacturers from that period, like Stradivarius, are still recognized today as representing the highest level of violin craftsmanship.

Modern pop music has incorporated the use of violin, drawing it out of its classical shell. Artists like the Dave Matthews Band, bluegrass group Nickle Creek, and atmosphere rockers Sigur Ros have all made major uses of the violin in their compositions, helping the instrument evolve its sound to adapt to all music.

In this free video music lesson, learn how to get started playing the violin yourself. Our music teacher will guide you with basic tips on how to hold the violin properly, bowing techniques, positioning your non-bow hand, and tuning the instrument. He'll also help you find a teacher that's right for you, that will teach you the fundamentals of playing the violin.

Listing 1-15 of 15 eHow Videos
  •  Various Types of Violins

    Learn information on the various types of violins with expert music training tips in this free online instrument instruction video clip for beginners.

  •  Importance of Relaxing While Playing the Violin

    Learn how to play violin and information on relaxing while playing the instrument in this free online video music lesson.

  •  Parts of the Violin

    Learn the parts of the violin for beginners with expert music training tips in this free online instrument instruction video clip.

  •  Left Hand Position on Violin for Beginners

    Learn how to play the left hand position on the violin for beginners with expert music training tips in this free online instrument instruction video clip.

About the Presenter

J Adam Smith