The best age to start learning how to play the violin?

Question

My daughter is only 6 months old but I want her to start learning how to play the violin as soon as she masters standing and walking, hopefully 1 1/2 year old. Whats your opinion? I read an article and it said generally the best time to teach is when they are 3 years old but I think that's too much time wasted to wait that long.

Answer 1

Three year olds in Suzuki programs don't play the violin, they practice holding cigar box violins and learn not to treat the violin like a toy that can be banged around or thrown across the room. They don't actually start playing until their fine motor skills can handle a violin, which isn't until about 4 or 5.

Answer 2

Most of the professionals start anywhere between 4 - 8. some people say 3 is a good age, but I would disagree with that. It's a little young and if your kid is a bit of a goof, or lacks discipline, the first year will be kind of a waste of money. You also may want to make sure she's interested in the violin. That'll make a big difference as to whether she'll learn well, or will just tolerate it for you. The first things little kids learn when teaching them is basically how it's not a toy, and how to hold it. They'll also learn how to play using a bow, but they won't be able to produce any notes until they're motor skills are better. Maybe at the age of 5 if they're adept.

Answer 3

The violin is a great instrument to learn and play but it is not the easiest. You have some decisions to make before getting her started such as how you will teach her. Are you going to use a private tutor, online lessons ect. Make sure that she is mature enough and is showing an interest. If she is not showing an interest it is going to be frustrating for her. The best way that I can suggest is to expose her to the wonderful sounds that the violin makes and watch the response.

Answer 4

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Answer 5

At 6 months, she's already too old. Better luck next time with your second child. :-P



Look, while it is admirable to want your child to be exposed to music at a young age, you should be aware that you are entering dangerous territory here. I've seen far too many stage mothers over the years who force their children into showbiz only to regret it much later. A much better approach is to take her to concerts and foster of love of the arts rather than risk creating a monster of a human being who grows up hating every moment of violin practice.



In other words, 3 years isn't to old. It is far too young.

Answer 6

Earlier the better, but I think 3 is a great age to start, and is also very young. Most kids start instruments at age 6 or 7. Before that, I think the babie wouldnt even know what to do with the thing

Answer 7

1 and a half is much too young. They have to have the communication skills (so they can interact with their teacher) and physical ability to hold and play the violin before they can be taught. 3 year olds can learn but they probably won't make much progress until they are older.

Answer 8

You can't start TOO early, 3 or 4 years is almost perfect, though if she doesn't get it right, six or seven might be better, depending on whether she has good hand-to-eye co-ordination.