Top 3: The Violin

The violin has long been one of the most popular instruments in music schools.  Why is that? What do you think?

In my opinion, one of the reasons is the opportunity to play in an ensemble or an orchestra. You can play not only at home in your own little room, but also with friends, or be part of a large orchestra and perhaps perform in a large concert hall.

How long does it take before a child can play in an orchestra?

At the conservatory, we’ve developed an orchestra program alongside individual lessons to allow children to start early. These orchestra classes are free; they’re offered by the school without families having to pay extra, which naturally makes them more accessible. We also offer group classes where children have the opportunity to experience playing together, first in unison, then in two parts, and so on.

What made you decide to take up the violin?

I don't remember exactly. I really liked the sound. It wasn't that easy, though, because my parents come from a family of lawyers that goes back generations, and they assumed their daughter would also pursue a serious career—playing the violin wasn't really considered serious (laughs).

The funny thing is that a few years after I started teaching, my uncle called me to say he’d found a violin in a closet at my grandmother’s house, and asked if I’d like to have it. It’s a great instrument. I studied in Milan, then started teaching in Lugano, and I really enjoyed it. It was an environment that allowed me to keep learning alongside my work.

In your opinion, what's the ideal age to start playing the violin?

I don’t think there’s an ideal age. When working with very young children, it’s very important for parents to provide support, remind their child to do the exercises, and guide them through the process. In principle, a child can start as young as three or four years old—I’ve seen this firsthand. When I start working with an eight-year-old, the teaching method and approach change completely. Family support remains very important, but it’s just as important to let the child gradually become independent. Parents can set aside a suitable place for the child to practice, making sure the violin is always within reach.

Teaching adults is different, too. One of my first students was already sixty years old; he had worked with his hands his whole life and could no longer bend his index finger. After that, he played the violin passionately for twenty years. I sometimes hear people say that the violin is very difficult to play. That’s a common misconception; I’m convinced it’s not true.

Photo: Gabi Pavanello