Three signs you’ll become good at the violin

Sign #1: You have goals.

Having goals not only gives you something to work towards but also helps you stay motivated when things get hard. Most of the times that I’ve made the most progress have been when I’m working towards a goal. When I first started college, I was having a really tough time. I went from being one of the best players in the room to one of the worst, I had trouble making friends, and just figuring out how to be a human on my own. I went about two years without practicing very consistently and my playing level seriously suffered. However, when I started my junior year of college, I knew that I had to give a junior recital, and I did not want to sound bad! Working towards the recital not only helped me improve but also helped me rediscover why I wanted to pursue a career in music in the first place.

Sign #2: You make time for consistent practice.

The only way to get better at the violin (or any skill!) is to practice. As adults, we have so many more responsibilities than children; we have to work, take care of the house, take care of our family, take care of our health…the list goes on and on. It can be difficult to find the time and energy to practice. If you are being intentional with your time and making practice a priority on a daily basis, it’s just a matter of time before you reach your violin goals.

Sign #3: You understand it’s going to take longer than you think.

Learning the violin is playing the long game. There’s no shortcuts or quick fixes; you have to consistently put in the work for years and years to play at a high level. Someone who will become great at the violin understands that things take time and doesn’t get frustrated when things aren’t happening fast enough. They are patient, and above all, they don’t give up.