Learning to play the violin takes time, encouragement, a nurturing environment, consistent application, and perseverance, even in the hard times. It's something like planting a small seed that will one day grow to be a mighty tree.
For parents of new and continuing violin students – find patience! Be strong. Create the environment your children need at home. Be positive role models. Hold on to your beautiful visions and ideals! Your children will absorb, remember and learn, even as they struggle with peer pressures and adapting to expectations in the dominant popular culture. They will thank you one day for your efforts, for instilling outstanding ideals in them. They will appreciate that you did not give up on them, and for giving them music as a gift that will enrich them for the rest of their lives.
And for children - listen to your parents! Be patient with them; they most often do know best even if as kids you may not think so some of the time! As for adult students – congratulate yourselves, be patient with yourself as you learn, don’t rush, and love the process!
Learning to play the violin is no easy matter. But it may be the most worthwhile adventure of your life. It's a lifelong challenge and journey, which will yield treasure and pleasure in your life no matter what field you pursue. You will learn to stick to your pursuits and after this, nothing will seem too great a challenge!
Most of all, you’ll find that the treasure of being immersed and comfortable in making music will in itself provide a life full of pleasure, friendships and will yield life’s greatest and deepest satisfaction.