Is it too late to start playing violin?

July 27, 2013 at 10:20 AM

“Hi!

I had much free time recently and I've decided to fill that time with a new hobby and the decision for me was quite simple - violin :) I've set everything up so I will start learning in upcomming weeks.

What should I know and on what should I focus while learning playing violin?

What should I learn?

I am 23 years old isn't it too late? I've made the decision anyway but other visitors of your channel probably ask themselves this question.”

Can you start playing the violin as an adult?

Where should you start and what should you focus on?

Watch this video to hear my answer to this question lots of people ask themselves...

Love,

Zlata
Violinist and Skype violin teacher at Violin Lounge

PS: Do you have questions for me on violin or viola playing? Post a comment below or send an e-mail to info@violinlounge.com

From Elaine Fine
Posted on July 28, 2013 at 4:19 PM

I played for a few years when I was a child, and started from literal "scratch" at 31. I was able to play at a professional level after about 10 years of hard work, and now, at the age of 54 my only limitations have to do with natural deterioration of things like tendons, so I have to be careful when I play the viola.

With a good teacher, a few hours a day of practice, and an attitude that includes giving yourself permission to fail, there is no reason that anyone with the desire, a decent instrument, and a good teacher shouldn't begin the violin (or viola, or cello) as an adult.

You'll never be a child prodigy (you'll also never be a child again), and you will probably not become a soloist (most people who start as kids don't become soloists), but you can have a fulfilling musical adulthood.

From Albert Wrigglesworth
Posted on July 28, 2013 at 6:53 PM

I teach multiple string instruments to all ages, but the one age I have focused on is 55 yrs. and over. I have 15 students ranging from 55 to 81. They don't expect to be virtuosos and really enjoy the time they spend learning their violins. They say it keeps their minds active. Most of them are interested in playing waltzes and some of the old time tunes. When one gets up age there are some physical limitations due to arthritis and such, and considering I suffer from osteoarthritis myself I am able to aid them in their quest. Most of them are in their 3rd year now and are having a blast.

From Carlos Vadillo
Posted on July 29, 2013 at 4:34 AM

I started at age 56. I am don't plan at professional level but for sure I am having a lot of fun

From Charlie Gibbs
Posted on July 30, 2013 at 6:29 PM

I started violin at age 59, although I had been playing other instruments for some time before that. Now, four years later, I'm fiddling my buns off at bluegrass jams, playing classical ensemble pieces with friends, and playing viola in a local orchestra. I'm having a great time, and I know that music will sustain me for the rest of my life.

I think it's cruel to tell people they're too old to play. A late beginner likely won't become a top soloist playing with the Berlin Philharmonic, but there's much more to music than that. I think everyone, regardless of age, should be encouraged to play music; it can enrich anyone's life.

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Is it too late to start playing violin?

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