The BAVS Frequently-Asked Questions List

This is the FAQ for BAVS, the Beginning Adult Violin Study discussion list. New list readers (as well as others who have come to this page to learn more about the violin) are encouraged to read this FAQ, as it provides answers to many basic questions that beginning violinists often have. However, these answers should not be regarded as definitive or authoritative, but rather, as a starting point for answering your query. Playing the violin is a highly personal and subjective art, and your experience with the instrument will be unique.

Furthermore, even though a question may be answered in the FAQ, you should still feel welcome to repeat the inquiry or open discussion on the topic. You will be bringing new experiences and insights to the BAVS discussion community, and the renewal of the discussion will encourage those who have not previously posted their viewpoints to do so.

Finally, please be aware that none of the contributors to this FAQ teach the violin, and therefore, these answers are simply a compendium of the collective knowledge and experience of the list's amateur violinists. Read at your own risk, and be aware that your teacher may contradict advice that is given here.

Questions about the mailing list itself

What is the list?

How do I subscribe or unsubscribe myself?

How do I read or search past discussions?

Where can I upload or download related files?

Questions about age and time

Am I too old to learn to play the violin?

How old are the other people on this list?

How long does it take to become a good violinist?

How much time do I need to commit?

What happens if I don't have any talent?

Questions about teachers

Do I need a teacher?

How can I get started without a teacher?

How much will a teacher cost?

Where can I find a teacher?

A potential teacher was discouraging. Help!

What qualities should I look for in a teacher?

How long should my lessons be?

Questions about practice

How much time should I be spending practicing?

How can I make efficient, optimal use of my practice time?

How should I split my practice time between the things I'm working on?

What are some practice tricks for working on speed?

Questions about methods, pedagogy, repertoire, etc.

What is the Suzuki method?

What is the ABRSM?

What are ASTA grades?

What are some other common beginner methods?

What is the Russian/Franco-Belgian/German/etc. 'school' of violin playing?

What different styles of fiddling are there?

Questions about the basics of playing

I'm left-handed. Should I play 'backwards'?

I'm in discomfort/pain when I play. Help!

My hands seem too small/large/fat/slender. Help!

How can I improve my intonation?

What is the position of the left hand?

How do I hold the bow?

How do I vibrato?

How do I shift between positions?

Questions about buying violin-related stuff

Where can I buy violin-related stuff?

Should I buy or rent a violin?

Do I need a full-size violin?

How do I choose a good violin? How much will it cost?

How do I choose a good bow? How much will it cost?

What kind of strings should I buy?

My practicing is bothering other people. Help!

What kind of chin rest and shoulder rest should I use?

What type of case should I buy?

Questions about instrument care

How do I tune the violin?

How much should I tighten the bow?

How do I use rosin on the bow?

How do I clean the violin and bow?

When I should have the bow rehaired?

How and when should I change my strings?

Sources of additional information

Book list

Useful links