The violin is a beautiful instrument, one of elegance, passion, and a hint of mystery. It emerged in the early 16th century, evolving from string instruments like the rebec and the lira da braccio. Legendary violin makers such as Stradivari and Guarneri refined their craftsmanship. They created some of the most coveted violins in history.
This versatile instrument is used in a wide range of musical styles. Classical musicians play it solo, as well as in ensembles, orchestras, and chamber music. Jazz and blues musicians use the violin improvisationally, whereas folk and bluegrass musicians create fast-paced music in the fiddle style. Contemporary electric violins are used in rock bands for amplified effects and experimental sounds.
Violin Lessons for Children
Children can begin learning the violin at the age of 5. Most start with 1/2 hour lessons on the same day and time each week. We teach them to play the violin in an engaging learning environment where we also foster their love for music. As their skills improve, the teacher will recommend longer learning sessions.
Violin Lessons for Adults
Adults can learn to play the violin, too, and we can also help refresh your skills if you haven’t played the violin for several years.
We recommend starting with a trial lesson package and trying different teachers to find one that best suits your goals. Our private adult lessons are flexible to accommodate busy schedules. We recommend weekly or bi-weekly lessons, each lasting 45 minutes, to maximize the benefits of each session.
Our Violin Teachers
We have several violin teachers with at least one postgraduate music degree and extensive teaching experience. They are also professional musicians in their own right. While focusing on the basics, proper playing technique, note reading, rhythm and theory, we also help develop your love for music.
Violin Studio
Violin lessons are held in our light-filled voice studio, which also doubles as the voice studio. We have a piano that teachers use to accompany students during their lessons.
Violin Lesson Books
Your teacher will recommend a music book after assessing your skill level during the first few lessons. You may purchase the book through our online music bookstore for pickup at your next lesson. As you advance through the levels and master the technical aspects of playing the violin, we will help you explore different musical styles to broaden your abilities.
How Long Does It Take to Learn The Violin?
Kids’ brains are wired to learn quickly. Our violin teachers will work at the student’s pace to keep them engaged and enthusiastic. Beginners are generally able to play simple songs within the first few lessons.
However, practice makes perfect! Here’s a fun fact about practice: According to forward-thinking Canadian journalist Malcolm Gladwell, it takes 10,000 hours to become a world expert on anything! Playing music is about training your mind and establishing muscle memory; daily practice is the key to becoming proficient. Developing a routine to practice what is learned in school can help students quickly reach the 10,000 hours required to become world-class violin players.
Purchasing or Renting a Violin
You will need to purchase or rent a violin while taking lessons so you can practice at home in between lessons. It is essential to develop a regular practice routine at home, which your teacher can help you with during your violin lessons. We recommend Long and McQuade or Remenyi for instrument purchases and rentals. Be sure to get the correct-sized violin for children.
Performances & Recitals
OTOB provides many opportunities for students to perform in community events, recitals and our “Music and Munchies” mini recitals. These opportunities help keep students motivated and build their confidence.
Our student violinists perform with an accompanist at recitals twice a year.