Mistakes violin beginners should avoid

Alongside the habits beginners need to develop, there are mistakes worth avoiding. This article gives a few examples for students starting the violin.

1. When we first pick up a violin, we naturally want to play something straight away. But trying to stop notes before developing basic bow control can establish inaccurate finger habits. Begin with open-string exercises to control the bow, then introduce stopped notes with guidance.

2. Just as note-stopping follows initial open-string work, vibrato should wait until you can place notes accurately. It is an expressive technique added to a reliable foundation. With your teacher's guidance, introduce small, regular exercises once you are ready.

3. Tuning a violin can be challenging. Pegs are used for larger adjustments; for small corrections, use the fine tuners if fitted. Avoid tightening a string unnecessarily, as excessive tension may break it. Ask your teacher for help if you are unsure.

4. How tight should the bow be? Do not tighten it until the stick and hair are parallel: excessive tension can damage the stick or alter its curve. Ask your teacher to show the appropriate tension, and loosen the bow after playing.

5. Do not clean a violin with wet wipes or cloths soaked in alcohol or cologne: they can damage its varnish. After playing, wipe the instrument gently with a soft, lint-free cloth suitable for the finish. Keep moisture and cleaning products away from the bow hair, and ask your teacher or luthier about appropriate bow care.

Minanur Balcan
Rekor Sanat – Violin Teacher