Hi the name, Joy, Im African American and I live in alabama. I play the violin, a little by ear and can read music. I have been playing since the second grade with my school. Everyone tells me it's a gift but... it comes too easy. I wouldn't even know where to begin if I wanted to do something with my talent. I thank God every day for my talent. However I don't know how to utilize it. Help?...
2007-03-13 04:34:38 · 12 answers · asked by Joy 2 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Theater & Acting
I understand an opinion is an opinion... any comments made won't be taken personally. On the other hand, if it is intent to be insulting please don't waste your time.
-Thank you
2007-03-13 04:51:30 · update #1
Being in a rural area, it is kind of hard trying to find a teacher that is unfortunately too far away. Any other suggestions?
-Thanks
2007-03-13 05:06:46 · update #2
Some ideas...Ask your music teacher about what you can do with your talent - maybe he/she knows some youth symphonies/orchestras in your area that you can join. If you go to church, playing there could be another option (and another chance to play in front of an audience). Perhaps you'll want to get a qualified violin teacher, also, if you don't already have one.
One more suggestion - try taking RCM (Royal Conservatory of Music) examinations. Think of it as the North American music world's version of the SAT: important because it's standardized, meaning that people will notice that you do well on these tests. Some high schools accept it for course credit, so that's another thing to keep in mind. If you can get the performer's/teacher's (if that's the highest for the violin. I wouldn't know, since I'm a pianist) certificate, you'll be qualified to perform/teach. They cost a bit of money though, but check out their website all the same at http://www.rcmexaminations.org.
Sounds like you have some skill going on there - keep it up, and good luck!
PS I forgot to answer your first question: No, I guess not, but African-Americans are definitely in the minority in terms of the classical music scene. At least, that's my impression, but let that be encouragement for you to be the best you can be.
2007-03-13 04:49:35 · answer #1 · answered by tigertrot1986 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
American Girl Violin
2016-10-02 12:03:44 · answer #2 · answered by diemoz 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Joy...have you considered the Alabama School of Fine Arts? It's an amazing program in Birmingham that gives out scholarships. It's also considered to be one of the nation's best high schools. You should ask your music teacher at your school about how to go about learning more.
As far as being an African American female violin player, I have encountered several in the Suzuki violin program here in Birmingham. And some have gone on to be nationally favorites. Look up Regina Carter, who is an incredible jazz violinist. She started out with Suzuki, and now tours internationally.
If you have a gift, then you really need to develop it as fully as possible. Please don't let your talents go to waste.
2007-03-13 16:27:50 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm old enough to remember when there weren't any minorities--particularly Hispanic and African-American players--in professional orchestras. I always felt that was unfair and things have changed considerably in the last 30 years. I think if you want to play violin you'll be fine; there are federal laws against descrimination in jobs, and also, I really do believe that most of the young people now-adays, don't like racism, and aren't racist.
I hope I'm correct in this estimation. This, I think, is probably the biggest challenge of the 20th and also this century, and I think progress has been made. A lot of people will even favor you, just to make sure there is no descrimination. I don't think that's unfair at all, though I'm sure less kinder hearts will disagree.
You'll be fine. Study hard; get good teachers, challenge yourself. There are a bunch of young people who are changing the music world now, and will continue to do so. Be one of those people.
2007-03-13 04:59:33 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Of course it's not rare. I'm an African American and I've been playing the Violin for eight years going on nine.
2007-03-13 05:06:08 · answer #5 · answered by fire_stargirl08 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am a white guy that went to a largely African American high school and there were plenty of African American women that played the violin, so I don't think its rare.
2007-03-13 04:42:53 · answer #6 · answered by Cornbread Fred 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
What would make it rare? I know many that play the violin exceptionally well and some profesionally, you will not be the first! Many ***** women and men play the violin, as do their children.
I have often had the opportunity to attend parlor concerts in the home of some wonderful violinists.
2007-03-13 07:16:19 · answer #7 · answered by newyorkgal71 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it's not that rare; there is one african american female violinist, Regina Carter, who was allowed to play Paganini's original violin; there is a cd of it. I would say, concentrate on playing and don't worry about the rest of it.
2007-03-13 04:44:42 · answer #8 · answered by KJC 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It isn't rare but it is not popular. Look these items/people up: Angelina Rivera and www.blackviloin.net.
I will also say that you have an opportinity to make history. Afro-am artists (whether it be acting, music or comdey) all have an opportunity to make history with everything they do.
Take care-
2007-03-13 06:19:10 · answer #9 · answered by Phi Clarke 1 · 2⤊ 0⤋
yes It is kind a rare but I don't think that should matter because It will be Racism (I'm not African American)
2007-03-13 17:28:47 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋