I can still remember the first time I had my first violin. It isn’t fancy, not even something you can brag about. It’s cheap, but it was mine.
I won’t forget the strings are slightly stiff and the wood has that sweet smell, like it’s straight from the hardware store. As I said, it isn’t something that would make you want them.
Tuning slips every now and then, and the sounds also squeak sometimes. But at that time, it’s like a violin that really shines through my eyes. And it’s true. It gave me lessons and experience that taught me more than any high-end violin could have.
Choosing a Cheap Violin
When I purchased my cheap violin, my expectations at that time were realistic, and I am aware of that.
I knew it wouldn’t sound like the ones I heard at concerts or gigs I attended. But my curiosity won, and that’s the only opportunity I have. I don’t have time to prioritize perfection because I only wanted to play. I want to start playing as soon as I can. I also allocated part of my budget to some accessories to get started.
Facing the Challenges
Truth is, the journey wasn’t easy. The tone of my violin is unbelievable – it’s uneven. Same with the bow. It seemed to have a mind of its own. Not to mention again that the tune keeps slipping.
Every practice session at that time felt frustrating and also like a discovery that I won’t trade for anything. My violin forced me to listen closely and tweak things. I didn’t give up and just trusted the process.
Lessons Beyond the Instrument
After a few more months of mixed feelings, I realized that my humble violin wasn’t holding me back. In fact, it’s me. I was the one holding back what I could do.
Turns out that my posture, technique, and daily practice are all a big deal. My cheap violin didn’t magically and instantly improve, but shockingly, I did!
Small Triumphs, Big Realizations
I can also remember the time I played a whole song. Mind you – without slips or squeaks. I also recorded myself, and I couldn’t believe the sound that I made from my cheap violin.
Also, the first time I performed in front of my friend, they praised me, which felt like a standing ovation. Those small progresses? It became my proof that growth matters more than any perfection.
Reflection: What Quality Really Means
Today, I’ve tried different violins, and some are expensive ones. True. They sound richer and warmer, and I like it, but none of them feel quite like that first one.
My first cheap violin carried my first lessons and struggles. That’s when I learned what quality really means. It comes from your effort and love for music, not just about how expensive an instrument is.
Tips for Beginners on a Budget
Here are some tips I recommend for those beginners who are on a budget.
First, start small. A good, cheap violin can still teach you plenty of things, especially that you only need to learn the basics in the first weeks or months.
Second, you need to focus and set up. Sometimes, you need to adjust the bridge or strings, and you’ll see that it makes all the difference.
Third, practice regularly and try to record yourself to track your progress. This is one of the most effective ways to see where you’re at and monitor your goals.
Lastly, don’t compare your journey to other musicians. You need to learn that everyone starts somewhere, and your journey is more important than anyone else’s pace.
Conclusion
Are you a beginner or a student eyeing that cheap violin and can’t decide? Trust me. Go get that now.
Don’t be afraid to take the leap because, honestly, it’s not the price that shapes the music. It’ll be your patience and persistence.
