Blog
Browse the blog posts and podcast episodes to help you learn the violin as an adult.
Top beginner violinist mistakes and how to fix them
In this episode, we’re going to look at one of the first things I want my private violin students to learn how to do— diagnosing these errors on your own and having the tools to fix them.
Ep #24: Is it me or my violin? Troubleshooting unpleasant sounds
You’re not sounding so hot in today’s violin practice session. Is it you or your violin?
A lot of the times, it’s on us, but sometimes we get lucky and something is a little off with the violin and you can make a quick adjustments and then you’re sounding much better. You’ll be able to tell which is which by listening very closely to your instrument.
Ep #23: The diverse careers of modern-day violinists, feat. Eric Mrugala of Violin Podcast
I’m joined by Eric Mrugala, a violinist and host of the Violin Podcast. We’re discussing the state of the career of a modern-day violinist, how that has changed with the rise of social media, and what we think is missing in music schools to prepare violinists for the realities of modern-day violinists’ careers. You
Ep #22: Advice from an adult violin student
Today, I talk to my violin student Julia, who has been playing the violin for a bit over a year and a half .
She shares her experience as a kid learning piano, and how things are different for her now as an adult starting violin.
Ep #21: Using active listening to improve your playing
In this episode, you’ll learn how to source good recordings, which to avoid, whether it makes a difference to listen with video or audio, and then, the most important part, how to listen.
I’m going to walk you through this using several recordings of the same piece, and we’re going to listen and analyze them together.
Ep #20: The #1 thing you should be doing outside of practice to improve your playing
If you’re learning a piece of music, there’s one thing you really need to be doing outside of practice.
Ep #19: How professional orchestral auditions work, with Evalynn Tyros
Ever wondered how orchestra auditions work?
In this episode, I’m going to give you a behind-the-scene perspective into what only happens behind closed doors in the classical world: the audition process.
Musicians give their everything in these auditions, and it’s incredibly difficult and competitive to win a job. And that’s the term we use— winning a job. Because it is every bit a competition.
Ep #18: Is practicing with a tuner a good idea?
We all know that intonation is one of the biggest struggles we have as violinists. Digital tuners and tuning apps seem like a cheap and easy tool that will help you improve, but it’s not so simple.
Like everything, there are pros and cons to working with a tuner, and most violin teachers (myself included) generally don’t recommend them. That said, I think they can be a very valuable tool to some people when learned correctly.
Ep #17: How to organize your violin practice to you optimize your productivity
Tracking your progress and progress can be a great tool to keep you motivated, on track, and organized.
There’s no wrong way of keeping a practice journal, but I will give you a few ideas and suggestions to track your practice.
Ep #16: When can I learn vibrato? A violin teacher’s perspective
When should you start learning vibrato?
I answer my #1 most asked question as a violin teacher. Listen to learn what I look for before starting vibrato, how long it takes to learn, when I personally teach it, and what you can do to start preparing-- even as a beginner.
A guide to classical concerts
The classical world is a bit intimidating if you're just starting out, but attending a live concert is one of the best things to go out and see if you're learning the violin.
Ep #14: Setting up your space for violin practice
Do you have what you need to have a successful violin practice? Listen to find out what you need to set up your space
In the second half, I cover some ideas and solutions for those of you who have to be mindful of your noise production (thin walls, roommates, neighbors...)
Ep #13: What learning the violin as an adult is REALLY like || Student stories: Andres
In this episode, my private student Andres shares his story of how he came into the violin 5 years ago without any previous musical experience, and how he's been able to establish a consistent practice over the years while balancing a demanding career.
Ep #12: Why classical violinists don't improvise: A history
Classical violinists are expected to have the skills to play virtuosic repertoire, beautiful melodies, and sight read almost perfectly...so why can't most improvise over simple chord changes? The history is pretty fascinating!
Ep #11: 5 mistakes you're making in your violin practice
These are the top 5 mistakes that we all make when practicing violin.
Ep #10: The science of violin repairs, featuring luthier Ian Christian
Today we're discussing important things that you probably haven't thought to wonder about-- like how humidity and your climate affects your instrument, what you should be communicating to your luthier when getting repairs.
Luthiers know way more about violins than violinists do, so you will definitely learn a lot of new things in this episode!
Ep #9: Making time for violin practice as a busy person || Student Stories: Olivia
In this episode, my private student Olivia shares her story of how she went from being a total beginner to starting a Vivaldi concerto in just 2 years, all while being a working, full-time university student.
Ep #8: Transitioning from classical violin to Irish fiddle, featuring Hannah Harris
This week’s episode features guest expert, fiddler, and ethnomusicologist Hannah Harris, who discusses getting started with Irish fiddle
Ep #7: Getting back into shape after a long practice break, part 2
Here are some tips for when you're ready to start practicing violin again after a long break.
Ep #6: Getting back into practicing violin after a long break, part 1
Here are some tips for when you're ready to start practicing violin again after a long break.