Blog
Browse the blog posts and podcast episodes to help you learn the violin as an adult.
Buying a violin: A guide (and when to upgrade)
In this episode, I guide you through the process of buying and upgrading your violin, from factory-made models to handcrafted luthier instruments.
I’ll share tips on when to upgrade your violin, what to listen for when choosing one, and where to start your research.
3 effective ways to end your violin practice
The way we end our practice session sets up the beginning of the next day’s work, and ideally we end wanting to go on.
How professionals practice, with Davina Shum of the Strad
I’m joined by cellist and online editor of the Strad, Davina Shum. We discuss practicing, careers in classical music, and practical tips for adult learners
6 violin techniques you should practice every day
In my 15 years of teaching violin, I’ve noticed a topic that is confusing for a lot of adult learners: how to structure their technique and warmup practice.
On practicing smarter and violin vs. viola, with Liz and Steph from MusicianCentric
I’m joined violists Liz & Steph, the hosts of MusicianCentric Podcast. They share new research on how to practice smarter and the differences between viola and violin.
Making time for violin in a busy season of life| Student Stories: Carly
This week, I’m sharing a conversation with my private student Carly. She shares how she makes time for violin as a busy, homeschooling mom of 4
Posture and body awareness for adult learners, with Rachael Ridge
When it comes to violin, you know I’m always talking about the fundamentals. The basis of that often comes down to posture, which is one of the topics I’ll be discussing with my guest today. Joining me this week is fellow violin teacher, Rachael Ridge.
Designing your musical education as an adult learner - The Strad
Listen to my guest interview on the Strad podcast
7 violin vibrato mistakes, explained
Did you know that certain styles of vibrato can be controversial? This episodes explores the most common mistakes violinists make at every level of their playing.
5 steps to prepare to learn vibrato (even as a beginner)
Here are some things that you can start doing even as a beginner, even in your first year of violin playing to get ready to learn vibrato.
The ultimate guide to learning violin vibrato
What really goes into learning vibrato? It’s helpful to understand the steps involved before starting the technique, and that’s exactly what I’m covering in this episode.
Violin practice strategies for busy people: the 3-template system
So much to practice and so little time: I think this is a feeling that a lot of us can relate to. Here’s how you can continue to progress on the violin even if you're limited by your schedule.
Violin Scales and Arpeggios - Free Beginner Sheet Music
Violin Scales and Arpeggios: free beginner sheet music of all 12 1-octave major scales and arpeggios
Making violin a meaningful part of your life as an adult learner | Student stories: Lisa
This week, I’m sharing a conversation with my private student Lisa, who has been playing the violin for 2 years. She shares her advice for beginners and how she makes music a meaningful part of her life.
How to immerse yourself in the violin world - in 7 steps
The best way to learn a language is to immerse yourself completely— here’s how you can do the same thing when learning violin
Playing faster on the violin: A step-by-step guide
There’s something about being human that makes us want to play fast— here’s how to do it properly, step-by-step.
A violin teacher’s advice for adult beginners
I share my advice for adult violin beginners from the perspective of a violin teacher. I discuss setting realistic goals, the importance of regular practice, choosing the right resources, and the benefits of active listening.
Perfecting Your Violin Technique: Overcoming Common Mistakes
My former student shares her journey going from never having touched a violin to playing in a band and recording session in just a few years.
Creating a musical community: The key to growing as a violinist
Playing music with others is a crucial part of coming into your own as a beginner or intermediate violinist. However, as an adult who is just starting out on the violin, finding opportunities to play with others can be challenging.
From beginner violinist to playing in a band | Student Stories: Jamie
My former student shares her journey going from never having touched a violin to playing in a band and recording session in just a few years.