2001-05-12

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2001-12-31

I traded in my guitar for a violin. My landlady told me that violin is the most difficult instrument to use. Actually, lots of people say that. Lots of people say that about chess, and I play chess. I told her that I like the elegant simplicity of it. And anyway, if I don't play it well, it's her who is going to suffer. :)

I got myself Anton Breton Oldenberg violin. Being a violin novice, I think I screw up just about everything a beginner can do. Here are some pointers for you to know, if you ever want to learn how to play violin:

1. Do not touch the strings on the violin or on the bow. Oil from your hand will ruin the sound. To remedy this situation, use rubbing alcohol or acetone. Don't spill alcohol on the varnish or it will be ruined. Obviously, touching everything is the first thing I do. :(

2. Use rosin (not resin) to make the bow string "grippy". The sound will be much better that way, but not too much so that it cakes the bow string. Use more on the base of the bow. The rosin will spread outward with each bowing stroke. Do not drop the rosin. It will shatter! Do not touch rosin with your hand.

3. To adjust the strings, use the pegs for major adjustments. Use the knobs at the base for minor adjustments. Be careful not to use the pegs for minor adjustments, or something may break.

4. Relax the strings for storage. They last longer that way. Make sure to adjust both the bow and violin strings.

5. Do not forcefully remove chin holder. Make sure you have the proper tool to do so, or you may not be able to properly put it back on again. Pad everything to protect the wood. I made this mistake.

6. Take note of the bridge. If the strings are too loose, it will come off. Position the bridge on the center along the notch. The bridge will transfer the sound to the violin body, and that marked point is where the sound is the most vibrant.

7. If you are tone deaf as I am, do yourself a favor and get an electronic tuner. Yamaha makes one, I think.

8. Don't buy expensive violin for study. Your first violin should be rental. Your second should be student's violin. Your third one should cost more than a car. :) Actually, this rule goes for just about anything including cars. ;)

I learned to play "Mary had a little lamb" almost immediately. I think it's a good start considering all my stupidities and inadequacies.