Instrument Information - Strings
Who can learn?
Children, youth and adults
Minimum starting age:
6 years for individual lessons;
7 years for group tuition
For double bass, the starting age may be older and will depend on the size of the student.
What do you need?
your own string instrument with bow: violin, viola, cello, double bass
for children: please note string instruments come in many sizes. Children must be assessed by one of our string teachers to make sure they get the correct size violin, viola or cello. This needs to be done for ALL students, whether hiring or buying their own instrument. New string students will be advised when this assessment can happen. Please do not purchase, hire or borrow a violin, viola or cello before our string teacher assesses the student, as you may end up with the wrong size!
for adults: a full-size string instrument
shoulder rest for violin and viola
end-pin stopper (often called a “donut”) for cello
rosin for your bow
instrument cleaning equipment
spare set of strings
folder for music
music will be provided for initial lessons: your tutor will advise you if you need to purchase music-books
music stand for home practice
What do you bring to the lesson?
Your instrument and accessories you need to play your instrument
Your music folder and music books
For individual lessons: a notebook for your teacher to record feedback and what to prepare for the next lesson
How much should I practice?
At least 5 days a week; but everyday is better!
Beginners: 10-15 minutes each practice - one practice in the morning and another in the afternoon or evening are great for beginners
After 1 year of study: 20-30 minutes each practice
2-4 years of study: 30-40 minutes each practice
5 or more years of study: 40–60 minutes each practice
Your lesson time with your teacher is quite short and happens just once a week – what you do at home between lessons on each day of the week is what makes the difference!