I started violin when I was 70, and I'm 75 now. As I get older, my memory is getting poor, but in spite of that, I've made progress, and am currently working on Becker Gavotte in Suzuki book 3. Learning the violin is very challenging, but it's also very fun, and there is nothing I'd rather do. If you are on the fence about starting, my advice is to go for it.
I just started. Im 73. Have only played guitar for 60 years, but never the violin. Lot of teachers on the tube. If you dont go well with one, just choose another. Per 😎in 🇩🇰
Oh I want to cry. I started playing at 25, just before my 26th birthday. I pretty much instantly fell in love and decided, that I will become a professional violinist. Well I am graduating from musicology and pedagogy this year and then go to the university of music. Maybe not a professional Solist, but definitely a professional violinist to be. The first 2-3 years were very, very hard. Alexander technique helped so much. I can’t stress enough how helpful that is. Especially if you feel tense on a daily basis anyways. I still want to study violin as an instrument at music university and I will not give up. The music world needs to change and I need to be a violinist. I just can’t breath or life without playing, there is no other way. And just as you said, I won’t Listen to anyone, who says I will not make it.
From my perspective you are right on in every respect. I started learning the banjo at age 25, and still play it. I started learning the mandolin at age 70 and still play it. I started learning the violin almost 3 years ago at age.....wait for it....82 !, and still play it. The most challenging for sure, but so very versatile. Your site is invaluable. 👍
I love this! Never too late to learn anything! I'm so glad you find my site helpful. I hope it's inspiring for people to keep learning violin. The funny thing is, comments like yours are what inspire me to keep teaching. Thank you!
This video motivated me as an 18 year old who’s really interested in violin! It’s been so long since I’ve played an instrument and I have absolutely no experience with violin but I’m so ready for the challenge so, thank you :)
"The violin is just learning a skill...times a million". I love that. I'm 62 and have been playing for almost three years and so much of what you said applies to me. I've played the guitar since I was a teenager so I know a little about music and theory, I'm very analytical, and I listen to tons of music, including the Beethoven concerto, which is my favorite. I also compare myself to others and get frustrated at my progress. But I'll never quit. It's such a beautiful instrument.
Hi Laura, I wanted to learn at a young age but we couldn’t afford it and there was no one around to teach it. I am now 50 years old and I got my violin for Christmas last year. There’s still no one here that knows how to play so I’m pretty much on my own. I’m glad I found your site. I’ve gained a lot of insight and encouragement from you so far. I’m not in a rush to learn. I have the rest of my life, to practice and if I only learned twinkle, twinkle little star, I’ll be happy with this, but I do hope to learn more. Thanks ❤
I played viola 50 years ago and am learning the violin; just received my new violin from Fiddlershop. I learned to play the harp when I was 63 and am now 65. Never too late to learn.
I've fallen in love with the violin at 42, and I just bought my first beginner violin from Fiddlershop. I can't wait to spend the rest of my life learning and doing my best to become better and better at the instrument!
I started playing at 9 and played obsessively until 15. I'm 40 now and am picking it back up. Was super disappointed I couldn't just sound like I did then. I almost just put it away but w in the last 2 weeks my music reading has come back as 2nd nature so my bowing is what I'm working at getting back. This video is comforting lol.
I started 3 years ago. I will turn 76 next week. I am a slow learner but I am happy with how I am doing. But I am lucky to have a good teacher and a great support group.
This was just what I needed to hear today! Thank you so much! I am an adult beginner 1 1/2 months into learning. I practice everyday so far, taking breaks every once in a while and sometimes I can't tell if I am making progress. I am also guilty of comparing my journey and learning to others on youtube. I love the violin and I hope one day my passion shows in my playing. Thank you for your educational videos and this encouragement!
About to turn 60 I have been getting frustrated. With the arthritis in my neck I keep wondering if I can do it but I have a tremendous desire the play so I push through the pain hoping it will get better. I’ve also been frustrated with the problem of a bouncy bow. I thought after 4 months I would think it would be gone by now. Thank goodness for your zoom lessons last weekend. After a few days of doing the exercises you taught us and I can finally see a huge improvement. To get rid of the bouncy bow make it bounce on purpose. Who would have thunk it 😊. Thanks again, really appreciate it.
I'm 61 and started learning the violin in January this year (2023) and I absolutely love it. I have a great teacher, she as the patience of a saint, especially with my Bouncing Bow and wondering Bow problems lol. Thankfully I'm getting through it now, and I'm enjoying every lesson.
I started learning the violin when I was 16 years old. at that time there was a rare violin in my city and it was not easy to get a violin and of course it was expensive. Matur suksma Laura ☘️🎻🤠🌹🍀
I totally agree with you! I started violin at 33, now I am 39. But I have music background, I studied high school jazz rock guitar. So I know theory and music reading and also string instrument left hand and I also have trained hearing (not perfect pitch but very close to). So starting violin was relatively easy. I was also teaching guitar for years, so I am able to progress well during teacher visits which is not so often for me. My further progress is slower, but I am happy with it and I enjoy practicing and playing. And yes, a lots of small children years are torturing with so little progress (I have 2 children, older one is seven and she wants to start playing piano this year).
Same bro. I also learn music theory through piano and guitar and when I lay hands on a violin, I never thought I couldn't learn easily but I did, I already make progress in just a month.
Yep, 66 and working though the grades. Just commit and don’t think it’s easy. It IS a challenge, but that why you do it. Think Everest - because it there!
I am a classic baby boomer and I have been teaching myself with my daughter's violin lesson books, watching Andre Rieu and the :Lawrence Welk show when they focus on the violin section or a certain person who plays beautifully. I observe and I work at it. I got the violin bug by watching Michael Landon "playing " the violin portraying the real Charles Ingalls on Little HOuse on the Pririe. says Judy Corrette
I started learning violine at the age of 57.... Left hand is less problems... but bowing.. working at this problem and it gets better.... slowly but it does
Lora, thank you for some excellent advice, especially the part about not comparing yourself with others.I truly love your channel content and perspective borne from years of experience!
no you still young for starting of leaning violin playing: because the playing gives you benefits of improving your brains and mental indeed. Start up leaning now. respect your purpose.
I am 56 year old guitarist... It is very difficult compare to the guitar. However I love the violin so much whether I can play it well or not. It doesn't bother me at all. Age is in your mind...
Hello. I have a rather lengthy question about learning to play the violin and your studio program. What is the best way for me to submit that question to you?
@mguitar762 at my level. Total beginner, can't read music even, etc. I was setup with a stentor for around $300. Currently renting but plan to buyout soon.
I despise this mindset that you have to begin at 5 years old. Instruments will benefit any child, teenagers and adults on their motor skills and their memory, even if they only play simple pieces or move very slowly through each Suzuki book. It's healthy! And even if you started at 5, the average progress it's still slow for children. Plus, years spent playing doesn't equal time of practice. I could say I've been playing for 10 years and still sound awful. I met a violinist who's been playing for 25 years and the bow was crooked.
I am 50. I started 5 years ago. I am just OK, I don't feel I really accel at this. I have started to not really enjoy it very much and am thinking of quitting. Any advice?
I think getting into that slump is very common. I would suggest switching up whatever style you play. If you like fiddle, try some classical or vice versa. See if you can find live events in your area (symphony concerts or Bluegrass get-togethers). Or even better, look into ways you can get involved with other musicians like community orchestras or bluegrass jam sessions. Getting involved with other musicians is probably the best way to stay motivated. My Online Studio is a great way to stay motivated as well. That's really one of the reasons I created it. Lots of lessons on various styles and levels of playing, live events, practicing challenges, recitals. I think the best part is the community forum. It's all about staying motivated and cheering each other on. Here's a link if you are interested. We'd love to have you! www.meadowlarkviolinstudio.com
@@duckwithoneleg00 Exactly! Go for it! 15 is pretty old to pursue it professionally, but I have many students starting to learn violin at 80+. With the right mindset and practice routine, you can learn to play beautiful music and enjoy this wonderful instrument, no matter how old you are!
I started violin when I was 70, and I'm 75 now. As I get older, my memory is getting poor, but in spite of that, I've made progress, and am currently working on Becker Gavotte in Suzuki book 3. Learning the violin is very challenging, but it's also very fun, and there is nothing I'd rather do. If you are on the fence about starting, my advice is to go for it.
The violin will keep your memory healthy for sure!
go for it and enjoy it!
I just started. Im 73. Have only played guitar for 60 years, but never the violin. Lot of teachers on the tube. If you dont go well with one, just choose another. Per 😎in 🇩🇰
Damn! I thought I was too late in my 40s. Thanks for the hopeful note.
Oh I want to cry. I started playing at 25, just before my 26th birthday. I pretty much instantly fell in love and decided, that I will become a professional violinist. Well I am graduating from musicology and pedagogy this year and then go to the university of music. Maybe not a professional Solist, but definitely a professional violinist to be. The first 2-3 years were very, very hard.
Alexander technique helped so much. I can’t stress enough how helpful that is. Especially if you feel tense on a daily basis anyways. I still want to study violin as an instrument at music university and I will not give up. The music world needs to change and I need to be a violinist. I just can’t breath or life without playing, there is no other way. And just as you said, I won’t Listen to anyone, who says I will not make it.
That's so wonderful to hear! Congratulations. Alexander technique is wonderful too!
From my perspective you are right on in every respect. I started learning the banjo at age 25, and still play it. I started learning the mandolin at age 70 and still play it. I started learning the violin almost 3 years ago at age.....wait for it....82 !, and still play it. The most challenging for sure, but so very versatile. Your site is invaluable. 👍
I love this! Never too late to learn anything! I'm so glad you find my site helpful. I hope it's inspiring for people to keep learning violin. The funny thing is, comments like yours are what inspire me to keep teaching. Thank you!
This video motivated me as an 18 year old who’s really interested in violin! It’s been so long since I’ve played an instrument and I have absolutely no experience with violin but I’m so ready for the challenge so, thank you :)
That's wonderful! I hope you take it up. I have many students who never had any other experience with music. It's do-able!
"The violin is just learning a skill...times a million". I love that. I'm 62 and have been playing for almost three years and so much of what you said applies to me. I've played the guitar since I was a teenager so I know a little about music and theory, I'm very analytical, and I listen to tons of music, including the Beethoven concerto, which is my favorite. I also compare myself to others and get frustrated at my progress. But I'll never quit. It's such a beautiful instrument.
Yes! I think your last statement is the key to sticking with it. Just committing to not quitting is a winning a big battle!
Hi Laura, I wanted to learn at a young age but we couldn’t afford it and there was no one around to teach it. I am now 50 years old and I got my violin for Christmas last year. There’s still no one here that knows how to play so I’m pretty much on my own. I’m glad I found your site. I’ve gained a lot of insight and encouragement from you so far. I’m not in a rush to learn. I have the rest of my life, to practice and if I only learned twinkle, twinkle little star, I’ll be happy with this, but I do hope to learn more. Thanks ❤
I played viola 50 years ago and am learning the violin; just received my new violin from Fiddlershop. I learned to play the harp when I was 63 and am now 65. Never too late to learn.
Wonderful! I totally agree! Best of luck with your new violin!
I've fallen in love with the violin at 42, and I just bought my first beginner violin from Fiddlershop. I can't wait to spend the rest of my life learning and doing my best to become better and better at the instrument!
I love that attitude! With that mindset you can achieve a lot!
59! Three years ago. My COVID project
Awesome! Keep it up!
I started playing at 9 and played obsessively until 15. I'm 40 now and am picking it back up. Was super disappointed I couldn't just sound like I did then. I almost just put it away but w in the last 2 weeks my music reading has come back as 2nd nature so my bowing is what I'm working at getting back. This video is comforting lol.
Glad it helps! I can understand how frustrating it can be, but keep it up and you'll get over that hump!
I started 3 years ago. I will turn 76 next week. I am a slow learner but I am happy with how I am doing. But I am lucky to have a good teacher and a great support group.
This is very encouraging. I have been taking lessons for 8 years, I am an older adult learner. Great thoughts, thank you!
You're welcome! Glad it helps!
Thank you! I am returning to the violin after 40 years and this video was so encouraging!!!
This was just what I needed to hear today! Thank you so much! I am an adult beginner 1 1/2 months into learning. I practice everyday so far, taking breaks every once in a while and sometimes I can't tell if I am making progress. I am also guilty of comparing my journey and learning to others on youtube.
I love the violin and I hope one day my passion shows in my playing. Thank you for your educational videos and this encouragement!
You're very welcome! Glad it helps. Stick with it, it's definitely worth it!
About to turn 60 I have been getting frustrated. With the arthritis in my neck I keep wondering if I can do it but I have a tremendous desire the play so I push through the pain hoping it will get better. I’ve also been frustrated with the problem of a bouncy bow. I thought after 4 months I would think it would be gone by now. Thank goodness for your zoom lessons last weekend. After a few days of doing the exercises you taught us and I can finally see a huge improvement. To get rid of the bouncy bow make it bounce on purpose. Who would have thunk it 😊. Thanks again, really appreciate it.
Awesome! This makes me so happy to know it's helping with the bouncy bow!
I improved my bouncy bow a lot with no effort! My teacher lent me old bow, that’s how. Maybe you have a crappy bow like I did
❤❤❤100%Totally agree so glad I follow my Dream not listening to negative People.Its workkng well especially if you are a musician Singer already
Thank you, Lora, for your encouragement and clear thinking on this question we often ask ourselves before taking a leap like this!
You're so welcome!
I'm 61 and started learning the violin in January this year (2023) and I absolutely love it. I have a great teacher, she as the patience of a saint, especially with my Bouncing Bow and wondering Bow problems lol. Thankfully I'm getting through it now, and I'm enjoying every lesson.
Wonderful! It's great to find a good teacher. Yes, you will get over those initial bow frustrations with good practice!
That’s amazing thank you so much. I’m 40 😊
You're welcome!
I started at 28 😘 Has been 1,5 years now and am nearly finished with Suzuki Book 2.
Awesome! Keep it up. It's worth it!
Even me too just started Suzuki second volume very recently
Thank you for this video. Very clear and informative. 🙏 🎻
I started learning the violin when I was 16 years old. at that time there was a rare violin in my city and it was not easy to get a violin and of course it was expensive.
Matur suksma Laura ☘️🎻🤠🌹🍀
I totally agree with you! I started violin at 33, now I am 39. But I have music background, I studied high school jazz rock guitar. So I know theory and music reading and also string instrument left hand and I also have trained hearing (not perfect pitch but very close to). So starting violin was relatively easy. I was also teaching guitar for years, so I am able to progress well during teacher visits which is not so often for me. My further progress is slower, but I am happy with it and I enjoy practicing and playing. And yes, a lots of small children years are torturing with so little progress (I have 2 children, older one is seven and she wants to start playing piano this year).
Same bro. I also learn music theory through piano and guitar and when I lay hands on a violin, I never thought I couldn't learn easily but I did, I already make progress in just a month.
@@metal1846 That is great! Lets enjoy it, it is so great to play violin :)
Yep, 66 and working though the grades. Just commit and don’t think it’s easy. It IS a challenge, but that why you do it. Think Everest - because it there!
So true! Great advice!
Very good advise , thank you
I am a classic baby boomer and I have been teaching myself with my daughter's violin lesson books, watching Andre Rieu and the :Lawrence Welk show when they focus on the violin section or a certain person who plays beautifully. I observe and I work at it. I got the violin bug by watching Michael Landon "playing " the violin portraying the real Charles Ingalls on Little HOuse on the Pririe. says Judy Corrette
I am sitting here smiling and nodding my head, thanks for sharing 😊
Thank you . I needed this encouragement. I brought a membership , so many resources . ❤
Thank you so much and I'm so glad you found the encouragement helpful and that you are enjoying the studio!
I started learning violine at the age of 57.... Left hand is less problems... but bowing.. working at this problem and it gets better.... slowly but it does
Yes, sometimes progress is slow but definitely worth it!
I'm about to start learning violin at age 33. Thank you for this video, its like a pat on the back saying "it's ok. You're right where you need to be"
Exactly! Glad it helps!
Thank you. I'm starting today in my 20s and feel like I'm so behind because I can't even read music.
Don't worry! You'll be able to learn note reading in no time. Plus there's a lot you can learn without note reading.@@Jss766
Lora, thank you for some excellent advice, especially the part about not comparing yourself with others.I truly love your channel content and perspective borne from years of experience!
Thank you so much! I'm so glad you found it encouraging! Thanks for your support!☺
Perfect 👌🏻 loved your video 😻 it was so informative , you are a real musician ❤❤❤ Your video really helped me, bless you and thank you so much 🙏🏻💐🌹
I started learning violin 🎻 when I was 39
Wonderful!
no you still young for starting of leaning violin playing: because the playing gives you benefits of improving your brains and mental indeed. Start up leaning now. respect your purpose.
I am 56 year old guitarist... It is very difficult compare to the guitar. However I love the violin so much whether I can play it well or not. It doesn't bother me at all. Age is in your mind...
So true!
Thank you very much for your wise advise about learning at adult level . You are very true. I know it from experience
Thank you so much!
My Mom gave me the same advice as little Girl
We are All uninque ❤be yourself
Even Jehuin Menhuin did learn till his death... 🎉😢😊
I’m about to start at 50. Definitely not 15. lol.
Only music experience is a small amount of piano in elementary.
Hello. I have a rather lengthy question about learning to play the violin and your studio program. What is the best way for me to submit that question to you?
I just turned 42. I have been playing violin for a little less than two months. I figure by the time I'm 50 I'll sound okay.
Awesome! Way to go!
I started playing violin at 56❤
Can you give recommendation on what fiddle to buy? What price range do legit fiddles start at? And what are some brands to look for?
Yes, here's an article I wrote that answers all of those questions: meadowlarkviolin.com/violinblog/best-violins-for-beginners
Thanks so much! I play classical/acoustic guitar. I have always wanted to learn violin and will start lessons soon more for the joy of it. I am 58.
@mguitar762 at my level. Total beginner, can't read music even, etc. I was setup with a stentor for around $300. Currently renting but plan to buyout soon.
I despise this mindset that you have to begin at 5 years old. Instruments will benefit any child, teenagers and adults on their motor skills and their memory, even if they only play simple pieces or move very slowly through each Suzuki book. It's healthy!
And even if you started at 5, the average progress it's still slow for children. Plus, years spent playing doesn't equal time of practice. I could say I've been playing for 10 years and still sound awful. I met a violinist who's been playing for 25 years and the bow was crooked.
I am 50. I started 5 years ago. I am just OK, I don't feel I really accel at this. I have started to not really enjoy it very much and am thinking of quitting. Any advice?
I think getting into that slump is very common. I would suggest switching up whatever style you play. If you like fiddle, try some classical or vice versa. See if you can find live events in your area (symphony concerts or Bluegrass get-togethers). Or even better, look into ways you can get involved with other musicians like community orchestras or bluegrass jam sessions. Getting involved with other musicians is probably the best way to stay motivated.
My Online Studio is a great way to stay motivated as well. That's really one of the reasons I created it. Lots of lessons on various styles and levels of playing, live events, practicing challenges, recitals. I think the best part is the community forum. It's all about staying motivated and cheering each other on. Here's a link if you are interested. We'd love to have you! www.meadowlarkviolinstudio.com
15 still young 38 is old for it
39 try and stop me
@@duckwithoneleg00 Exactly! Go for it! 15 is pretty old to pursue it professionally, but I have many students starting to learn violin at 80+. With the right mindset and practice routine, you can learn to play beautiful music and enjoy this wonderful instrument, no matter how old you are!
❤😊🤗😍👏🎵🎶🎶🎻
well 15 is also quite young tho
It's young for someone pursuing violin as a hobby, but for someone wanting to pursue violin as a profession, 15 is VERY old!