Leroy supervising Daniel in the workshop

Quite recently I was encouraged to write a monthly column to answer questions people asked about violins and to encourage more people – children in particular - to play them.

Many children love to play the violin and many parents want them to. Here are some of them columns I wrote in reply to certain questions. If readers have further questions on stringed instruments do contact me.

Q: At what age should children start to learn?
A: Some children begin lessons when they are three, others much later. Only children with good physical skills can manage a violin at such a young age. Imagine trying to teach children to play when they cannot yet put their fingers into their gloves without help! Starting at about 5 or 6 years is a good time because by then the children can be taught not just to play the instrument, but to read music as well. Research and experience both show that it is best to start playing before 8 to10 years of age because skills learned by young children tend to reach and maintain automatic levels of playing more easily. Of course, older children can learn to play, but it is harder.