I never thought this would happen to me. I didn't care much about classical music but recently I chanced upon some beautiful pieces (mainly Bach) for the first time and this has inspired me to want to learn the piano and violin. Problem is, I don't know which instrument to choose first. I'm deeply moved by the sound of violin more than the piano. I have even dreamed of playing in an orchestra. Sometimes, my heart beats really fast just thinking of the possibilities. Bad news is , I'm 32. I'm feeling very old to learn it, not to mention to play professionally in front of an audience. Also, I'm left-handed. I've never heard of a left-handed violinist perform in an orchestra. What are your thoughts? I appreciate your help. Thanks.
2007-01-06 07:16:08 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Entertainment & Music ➔ Music
Start by renting or purchasing an instument and take a few lessons to see if this is something to which you want to dedicate your time.
If you don't play in an orchestra, there is no reason why you would not be able to record an album if you want to do so.
2007-01-06 07:24:58 · answer #1 · answered by knightofsappho 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I am going to school and majoring in music composition. I just picked up the violin my 18th year, I am 20 now. You may think 18 is young, but a lot of people who pick up on instruments do so before their teen years. For example, I picked up on the piano when I was about 6 or 7. I am a pianist and nothing else, but I love the violin also. I learnt it pretty fast, so if I could- you could. Believe me the only instrument that has strings that I am really good at is the piano and I learnt the violin-I've not mastered it yet. If you can play it at all then don't give up. You can play the violin being left handed, but maybe you could learn to play with your right, that way you will feel better about it. I mean I am right handed but I can play the left handed part on the piano. What I am saying is that it's not impossible. Just practice.
2007-01-08 07:29:59 · answer #2 · answered by Kreutzer 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
With the right amount of dedication and practice anyone can learn to play an instrument - the trouble is the older you are the harder it becomes. You might have to practice a good 4 times as long as someone under 15 to get the same effects, but your brain will eventually learn it. If you're dedicated enough you WILL see the effects of your work.
If you want to learn the violin rather than the piano then go for it. However, be aware that it will sound HORRIBLE for quite a long time - the violin is a tricky instrument to be able to get the right tone for, wheras for the piano it is far easier. Being right or left handed doesn't matter when learning an instrument, everyone (except pretentious left handed guitarists) learns the same way. Being left handed may even be an advantage for a violinist as you are using your more dextrous hand (i.e. your left) to play the notes, rather than wasting it by bowing.
Try to find yourself a teacher, there may even be a specialist adult teacher near you and ask their advice about what instrument to buy etc. Good luck!
2007-01-06 07:22:35 · answer #3 · answered by Mordent 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would suggest getting some grounding in piano and music reading before you start the violin. It will make beginning violin much easier. Piano is good to have a background in, since you can see the notes out in front of you. Definately get yourself into an orchestra as soon as you can. Playing in lots of different settings will increase your skill and confidence a lot. I play violin solo, in an orchestra, and in a chamber music group and it really helps to be well-rounded. I agree with the other person's response about left-handedness, if anything, it's an advantage.
Never think you're too old to learn an instrument, my father picked up a fiddle when he was 40 and plays quite well!
As to your love for Bach, I share it completely. He wrote the most gorgeous music. And once you get good enough it is so much fun to play! I wish you the best of luck! Have fun with your music!
2007-01-07 12:14:14 · answer #4 · answered by Becca 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You're never too old to chase a dream. The first step in chasing this dream is to decide exactly what you want to play. Next step is once you decide what you want is good advice on purchasing a good instrument. Then take lessons...and I mean alot of lessons. Dedication is the key to success. You don't have to be the best, just have to want it bad enough. Good luck.
2007-01-06 07:33:14 · answer #5 · answered by BigJake418 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the left hand should be a benefit, (IMHO), as that would be the hand on the strings - the violin is not an easy instrument - anybody can be good with just one simple word
practice practice practice
best of luck
2007-01-06 07:21:11 · answer #6 · answered by tomkat1528 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋