If you are reading this article, congratulations on your decision to pick up the skill of playing the violin. Alternatively, you may be in the process of looking for a suitable violin teacher for your child. In either case, you will need to be aware of the following points:

1. A good violin teacher doubles up as a good mentor

Yes it is true. A good violin teacher is not only a skilled violin player, he or she must be passionate about educating his or her student. If you find a responsible violin teacher, this will all the more accelerate your learning progress. You will find that the process of picking up the skill of playing the violin is smoother.

2. Look for a qualified violin teacher

A qualified violin teacher imparts the right technique to a new student. He or she will teach the student the correct posture when playing the violin, how to hold the violin bow and correct bowing techniques. Learning the violin is very much like picking up any other skills such as swimming. If during the learning stage, you pick up the wrong techniques, it will be difficult to correct the techniques later.

3. Location of the violin lesson

You will also need to consider if you require the violin teacher to travel to your home to teach you or your child, or if you prefer to have the lessons in a studio. A studio would be a better choice as it is sound proof and will not disturb neighbours.

Some teachers prefer to be based in a school or studio, so they save travelling time and can handle more students. There is also the option of taking up group classes in a school or studio.

4. Budget

Finally, you will need to decide on a budget for engaging your violin teacher. Very experienced and qualified violin teachers may command a rate of $100 per hour while those who are just starting out may start at a rate of $50 per hour.

5. Track record of the teacher

If possible, find out the track record of the teacher. Does he or she have a high percentage rate of students who pass the ABRSM exams with merit or distinction? These results tell a lot on the capability of the teacher.

Also, check if the teacher’s existing pool of students have been with him or her for many years. If the answer is yes, then you have very likely found the perfect violin teacher for you or your child.