One of the biggest mistakes I see among adult beginner fiddle players is becoming completely focused on learning the notes of a tune while paying almost no attention to the bow arm and foundational techniques like bow control and tone. And while hitting the right notes is important, tone is what actually makes your playing sound confident, steady, and musical. So today, let’s talk about why tone matters so much — and a few simple ways you can start improving your tone right n

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years as a violinist and fiddle player, it’s that a little preparation goes a long way. Whether you’re heading to a lesson, a jam session, or a performance, there are a few essentials you never want to leave home without. Today, I’m sharing 3 things I always keep in my violin case—and you should too. 1. Rosin Rosin is one of those things you don’t think about… until you really need it. Without enough rosin on your bow, your sound can

Today we’re talking about two main ways to read music — sheet music and tablature . Both have been around for centuries, but they serve different purposes, and depending on your goals, one might make more sense for you to focus on. Let’s take a closer look at what they are, the pros and cons of each, and which one I ultimately recommend if you’re learning to read music. What Is Sheet Music? Let’s start with sheet music, otherwise known as "standard notation". This version of

It's cold here in the Northern Hemisphere, and that means taking extra precaution to make sure our string instruments stay safe. Today, I’m sharing 4 quick tips to protect your violin in cold winter weather. If you'd like to learn how to keep your violin safe this season, keep reading. Whether you’re heading to lessons, rehearsals, or gigs this winter, these tips will help you protect your instrument and avoid expensive repairs. Tip #1 – Avoid sudden temperature changes Violi