RE: What are some good online resources for learning the violin?
As a beginner violinist, I'm searching for quality online tutorials, courses, or forums where I can learn the violin and get feedback on my progress.
Venturing into the world of violin playing is a thrilling journey, and fortunately, there are numerous online resources available to guide you at every step. Here's a selection of recommended online learning tools and communities that cater to different learning styles and needs:
1. **Online Courses:**
- **Violin Lab**: Created by Beth Blackerby, Violin Lab offers a clear path for beginner to intermediate learners, with detailed video lessons that cover everything from the very basics to more advanced techniques.
- **ArtistWorks - Violin with Richard Amoroso**: This platform provides lessons for different skill levels and personal video exchange learning, where you can submit videos and receive feedback from the instructor.
- **Fiddlerman**: It's a resourceful site with free tutorials, lessons, sheet music, and play-alongs for violinists of all levels.
2. **Video Tutorials:**
- **YouTube**: There are many violin tutors and professional musicians on YouTube offering free lessons. Channels like 'The Online Piano & Violin Tutor', 'Violinspiration - Violin Lessons', and 'Eddy Chen' are popular among violin learners.
3. **Interactive Learning Apps:**
- **Trala**: This app uses real-time feedback with your smartphone's microphone and violin video lessons from world-class teachers.
- **Violin by Trala**: Similar to Trala, it helps you learn violin through exercises and instant feedback using your device's microphone.
4. **Forums and Community Support:**
- **Violinist.com**: An extensive online community of violinists at all levels, where you can participate in discussions, read articles, blogs, and connect with other musicians.
– **The Violin Channel Community**: On platforms like Facebook, this community provides a chance to engage with fellow violinists, ask for advice, and share progress.
5. **Sheet Music Resources:**
- **IMSLP (International Music Score Library Project)**: Free access to a vast library of public domain sheet music.
- **Musicnotes**: Offers a large collection of violin sheet music for purchase, with options for various skill levels.
6. **Software and Tools:**
- **SmartMusic**: An interactive music learning software that provides a repertoire library and practice tools.
- **Metronome and Tuner Apps**: Useful tools like 'Metronome Beats' and 'Cleartune' can aid in practicing rhythm and ensuring your violin is correctly tuned.
7. **Specific Technique and Theory:**
- **The Bulletproof Musician**: Though not exclusively for violin, this blog shares valuable insights on practice strategies, performance psychology, and musical improvement.
8. **Masterclasses and Work.Mvcshopies:**
- **MasterClass**: Offers classes by famous violinists like Itzhak Perlman, where they share their techniques and approaches to music.
- **iClassical Academy**: Provides online masterclasses and courses from internationally recognized professors.
When engaging with these resources, it's important to maintain a practice routine, set realistic goals, and be patient with your progress. Violin playing is a skill that takes time to develop, and consistent, mindful practice is key. Additionally, consider complementing online learning with occasional in-person lessons, if possible, to ensure you're developing good posture and technique. Remember that the value of feedback from experienced teachers or fellow musicians is irreplaceable as you grow as a violinist.