Hi -

I`m 21, and have never played an instrument. I have always loved the sound of the violin, and have always wanted to learn to play it. I want to start now. Is it practical for me to begin learning now?

Do I need to take a class, or are there videos that can teach me the basics to get started?

One more thing... I would rather own a violin than rent one, and I see many for sale on eBay. Are they total junk, or would they be acceptable for a beginner violin player?

One example: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=38108&item=3768723809&rd=1

Thanks in advance.

we`re on the same boat, nebben ^^, but i started about 8 months ago, and i`m very happy with my decision to take violin classes.

i really recommend getting a teacher because a video could not provide that vital interaction with the student as it`s very easy to develop (& hard to break) bad habits (bow hold, proper standing etc) studying without a teacher..

i dunno much about violins but i hear raves about gliga violins the beginner to intermediate is $138 -$300 http://www.violinslover.com/genial2nitroviolins4_4.php

No, its not too late at all. I started at 23 and i`m progressing quite fast. With a good teacher and a great passion for the violin, i manage to pass my violin grade 7 exam within 2 and a half years. I`m going for my grade 8 next year.

hahaha...

look out, ol` hag trying to learn the violin too...i am 26 and just started...so perhaps there`s hope for me too?

i guess music has no age limit.

and my heartiest congrats and deepest respect for violinaddict. went thru 7 grades in 2.5 years...amazing !

The replies regarding your plans and potential are already good. About those violins ... the first one in the $69 range is sufficient. I bought one like it and it is fine. The second set of violins (Gigla) look okay as well, but seem about the same at twice the price - they just have a little more lustre and cosmetic appeal. Personally, I went for the duller, hand rubbed antique finish. Choose yours from whomever sells the most and has the best, consistent user reviews. Strat msan Dwight

there are instruments that are easier to start old than violin, but if you love violin more than anything ekse, go for it!

jesus... 2 years when u started at 23 and at level 7.
jesus

Thanks for the replies.

I`ve posted on another messageboard -- on stringsmagazine.com -- and I have been advised to "Avoid ebay violins like the plague". So I`m not sure what to think, as some say they can be good and others say they`re awful.

What`s the average rate to rent a violin that is worth playing at entry-level? I won`t be able to check out the local music shop until the weekend, and all we have here is an Eckroth music store, if anyone is familiar with them.

Should I expect a lot of frustration when learning the violin? I love music, and can `feel` it; however, I`ve never played any kind of instrument, ever. I really want to learn to play, but I fear I am up against difficult odds starting in adulthood.

I would say it is only natural that you will experience frustration when learning any instrument. Eapecially if you already feel the music, because trust me, it is gonna be hard to get out the sound that your are `feeling`. I would try to get to a shop of some sort, maybe one owned by a violin dealer/mechanic. Name your price range and then ask if someone in the shop can play for you. If they can`t, I would see if there is another customer there who could play it for you. Or, bring along a violinist friend. If all else fails, just try to get the oppinion of another violin player if possible. Good luck!

I am 45 years old and just purchased my first violin from ebay. It is a wonderful instrument. I am teaching myself because we have 7 kids and no money for lessons. Since starting the adventure I came in contact with a lady who playes advanced stuff and she said she will help me a bit. I have had the violin for 2 weeks and finished my first lesson book. I can do the scales etc. I am working on some smoothness and combination stuff but wow. Violins are incredible instruments. By the way, I taught myself the piano 40 years ago so I already have a ton of music background.

it`s never too late to learn anything.

so long as you`re ready to practice =D

does anyone know if this violin is any good

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=10180&item=3769284060&rd=1

It`s probably as good as anything else in its price range.

I am in the trade in the UK and I know the market. This seller may have found a cheaper Chinese supplier than we have, but if so, this is likely to be reflected in the quality.

His feedback certainly gives grounds for confidence. Just don`t expect it to be any more than a very basic violin that will probably be sent bridge down. Also it`s odds on (but not inevitable) that the bridge will be uncomfortably high and the bow will be warped.

Still, if £50 is your budget then perhaps you could do worse.

Liz

my advice would be if you really want a well sounding violon dont be afried to spend a bit more but only if this is a long term thing cos trust my its worth while!

I am 45 and i just learned how to hold the violin today! My two kids have been playing and taking private lessons and in Orchestra.

I have no music background and just typed "how old is too old to learn to play violin" and found this message thread!

Now my son is going to teach me after reading this thread. And he said, "it is never too late unless you`re 90,000,000 years old".