Five key considerations when building a strong working relationship with your new violin teacher:
- Expertise/Authority
- Reputation
- Value for Money
- Flexibility
- Range of Services
The violin remains one of the most popular musical instruments to play in Canada for students of all ages. Originating in Italy in the early 16th century, the violin produces a unique, classical sound that is seemingly as expressive as a human voice.
Finding the right violin school or instructor can be a tricky process. On one hand, it should come as no surprise that learning the instrument will require you to be disciplined and patient in your practice. Learning any instrument takes work, and the violin can be a challenging instrument to play. On the other hand, you also want your music learning to be engaging and fun, so you can achieve your musical goals.
If you are supporting a child or younger student in learning the violin, you must also consider how well a music school meets the needs of children. Kids are notoriously fickle when it comes to committing to a musical instrument, so ideally you will have a school and instructor that truly understand what kids need to stay motivated.
This article is all about how to choose the best violin classes and instructors in Canada. We will explore what you should look for in a strong music school, what to expect from your lessons, and where to find the best violin lessons across the country.
What Should I Consider When Considering a Violin Teacher?
Let’s start by exploring five key points to consider when choosing a violin teacher: expertise, reputation, value, flexibility, and range of services.
Expertise/Authority
When finding an educator to support you in your learning, you will want someone with expertise in violin and teaching. To determine this, ask the instructor or school’s director what credentials and training the teachers on staff have. Do they have degrees in music? Are they professional musicians? Do they have teaching certification?
In many cases, you will find that music schools boast the credentials of their teaching teams online with staff biographies posted on the website. However, it never hurts to ask so you can feel confident that you are getting high quality instruction.
Reputation
A reputable school is important. You will want a school with strong client testimonials and a good reputation in the community for providing quality instruction and services. You can usually find online reviews, or speak with neighbors and community members about their experience with the music school or instructor.
If you are expecting the school to help you or your child prepare for Royal Conservatory of Music exams, be sure to check in with their track record and see how other students have found the experience to be.
Consistent services, a clear policy for make-up classes, and a clearly stated pedagogical stance or philosophy may be other “look-fors” when determining the reputation of a music school.
Value for Money
If you’ve ever looked into learning music, you should know that lessons - particularly private lessons - are seldom inexpensive. This is because you are leveraging the skill and talent of a musician - so consider tuition costs to be a worthwhile investment!
What provides value for money in music lessons? It can be hard to tell at first, but if you see you or your child growing as a musician and learning to play its a good sign you are getting value. Other perks, like studio space, performance opportunities, access to sheet music, and on call substitutes are added value that a school or instructor can bring to the client.
Flexibility
Life happens, and there are moments where you will have to make scheduling changes due to unexpected events, illness, and other factors. Choose a studio and teacher that is willing to work with you should such events arise.
Range of Services
Many music schools that offer violin instruction will offer a range of services beyond individual or small group lessons, such as ensemble groups, workshops, instrument rental, and some studios even offer event space to their clients!
Keep in mind, that many music schools that come with a lot of additional services and amenities may cost more - but this may all be worth it if it truly enhances the learning experience.
What Will I Learn in Violin Classes?
If this is your first time learning the violin, it is typical to wonder exactly what you will be learning in class. Let's take a look at some common elements to violin lessons in any music school: technique, reading music, music theory, and performance skills.
Technique
- Fundamental skills and coordination required to produce a controlled sound.
- Includes mastering different bowing styles such as legato, staccato, and spiccato.
- Left-hand technique for proper finger placement.
- Holding the violin and blow correctly to avoid tension.
- Develop ear training and muscle memory for playing in tune.
Reading Music
- Interpreting written notes, rhythms, and musical expression.
- Learning the Treble Clef, a 5-line staff in which each line and space represents a different pitch.
- How finger placement corresponds with different notes.
- Key signatures that indicate sharp and flat notes.
- Reading symbols like slurs and accents that guide bow movements.
Music Theory
- Rules and principles that explain how music works.
- Major and minor scales, key signature (major or minor).
- Rhythm and time signatures (ex. 3/4, 6/8).
- Intervals and intonation.
- Harmony and chords for playing in ensembles.
- Musical patterns and structures.
Performance Skills
- Abilities and techniques required to effectively present violin music in front of an audience.
- Stage presence and confidence.
- Maintaining eye contact and posture.
- Conveying emotions through play.
- Memorizing pieces to increase engagement.
- Stage etiquette and presentation.
- Adaptability and recovery after mistakes.
Where to Learn the Violin?
Canada is a country of many talented violinists, in every major city. Due to the commitment Canadians have to learning music, finding a music school that fits your personality, lifestyle, and musica goals is usually quite straight forward, but we're going to make it even easier!
Here is our list of some the best places to learn violin across the country.
Toronto
The Royal Conservatory of Music
273 Bloor St W, Toronto
The Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) is one of Canada's leading music schools. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto by the University of Toronto, the school is easy to find with plenty of transit options. RCM's Suzuki program is particularly renowned for young learners.
The RCM has inspiring programming built on the belief that the "arts are humanity's greatest means to achieve personal growth and social cohesion." Students gain access to a highly structured curriculum, qualified instructors, a full-scale concert hall, and an alumni that includes some of the most recognized names in the music industry.
Toronto School for Strings and Piano
1585 Yonge St., Toronto
The Toronto School for String and Piano (TSSP) is located in Uptown Toronto, and is known for its supportive, personalized approach to stringed instrument education. The TSSP utilizes the Suzuki approach of teaching music to young children, and theory classes are also part of the curriculum.
You could not ask for a better place for your child to learn music.
Hasina, Google Reviewer and TSSP parent
The school boasts a fun and creative approach to learning music theory in individual or small group lessons.TSSP's faculty includes experienced musicians who have trained internationally, and recitals and ensemble opportunities are offered to celebrate growth in learning.
Toronto Arts Academy
386 Eglinton Ave W, Toronto
If you’ve ever dreamed of learning to play the violin, the Toronto Arts Academy may be the perfect place to do it. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been playing for years, they’ve got you covered with top-notch violin lessons that can help you get to the next level. The Toronto Arts Academy have uptown, midtown and downtown locations in Toronto, so you shouldn't have to venture to far if you're in the city!
Students are matched with the best teacher for them, ensuring that the best learning experience is provided. The school also has a strong equity mandate, with a focus on inclusion and accessibility. The school offers violin lessons for students of all levels, and recitals and events are held for students to showcase their skills.
Toronto has some of the best violin schools in Canada for all skill levels.
Calgary
Mount Royal University Conservatory
4825 Richard Rd SW, Calgary
The Mount Royal University Conservatory has a reputation for being one of the most prestigious music schools in Calgary, offering excellent violin instruction for kids, teens and adults. The school offers a holistic approach to music education with a purpose of instilling a lifelong love of music and performance.
The Conservatory also offers a wide range of orchestras and ensembles for violin students who enjoy learning, socializing, and playing in a group setting. Private and group lessons utilizing the Suzuki method are offered for violin. The school also boasts performance programs and summer intensives for students.
Crescendo Music Studios
#140, 849 Premier Way, Sherwood Park
Crescendo Music Studios is an established music school in the Sherwood Park area of Calgary offering private violin lessons for students aged 7+. The studio is a beautiful, inspirational, and modern space that houses spaces for classes and a small store for instruments.
I definitely recommend!
Larissa, Crescendo Student
Violin students learn the building blocks of music while also gaining an appreciation for the long and rich history of the instrument and classical music. Recitals and competitions are also organized for students to showcase their skills.
Calgary has many great violin schools for students of all levels.
Vancouver
British Columbia Conservatory of Music
4549 E Hastings St, Burnaby, BC & 09 E 40th Ave Vancouver, BC
With locations in Vancouver and Burnaby, the British Columbia Conservatory of Music (BCCM) is a solid choice for prospective violin students. The BCCM has a strong philosophy grounded in consistency and quality, and the mandate of the school is to provide the highest level of education.
The school offers private lessons, group classes, and ensemble opportunities for violin learners. Students can learn traditional music-reading and Suzuki methods in a comprehensive learning environment. Many of their instructors are professional musicians with extensive performance and teaching experience.
Mozart School of Music Vancouver
#105-6588 Royal Oak Ave, Burnaby, BC
The Mozart School of Music is well known in the Burnaby community for being a great place to learn music. Instructors use both Suzuki and traditional methods to create a balanced learning experience for aspiring violinists.
Top notch teachers all with amazing credentials. They work on technique, have an infectious enthusiasm, and now my adult children have a lifelong love of music. Highly recommended.
Shizuka, Mozart School of Music Parent
The school boasts a joyful learning environment with highly trained, qualified, and experienced teachers. Alumni have gone one to become music professionals and/or study music at the post-secondary level.
Vancouver offers excellent violin schools for beginners to advanced players.
Ottawa
The Ottawa Conservatory of Music
830 Campbell Ave, Ottawa
The Ottawa Conservatory of Music has been providing high quality violin instruction for over 40 years. Educators have completed Ottawa Conservatory of Music teacher training, resulting in consistent programming.
My experience with this music school has been very good!
Jeannette, Ottawa Conservatory of Music Student
Private and semi-private lessons are offered at competitive rates. Students are prepared for both casual performances and more formal concerts in the conservatory's auditorium and local venues. Royal Conservatory of Music examinations and competitions are also available throughout the year.
Allegro Music Studios
255 Montreal Road, Ottawa
Allegro Music Studio has been serving aspiring Ottawa musicians for over 35 years, offering lessons for violin and other instruments. The studio has three locations in Ottawa, and boasts having taught over 10,000 students.
Allegro stands as a trusted source of music instruction for Ottawa locals. Many of its alumni have gone on to become successful professionals in music and beyond. With such a reputation, you can feel secure in knowing your or your child's violin instruction is in capable hands. Learn more about Ottawa's great violin schools.
Montreal
Conservatoire de musique de Montréal
4750 Henri Julien Ave, Montreal, Quebec
The Conservatoire de musique de Montréal is a top musical institution offering violin instruction for those who are serious about pursuing higher learning or a professional career in music. Primary and Secondary students can earn a Certificate of Preparatory Studies in Music, while older students can earn a diploma, degree, or graduate degree.
Great violin lessons for kids with a lot of good teachers and other kids learning the same instruments.
Zack, Conservatoire de musique de Montréal parent
Students can participate in masterclasses, workshops, recitals, and other events. Musical ensembles are available for students to join, and the school offers instrument loan and access to an astounding 35,000 books and 50,000 scores.
Academie de Musique Vivaldi
6955 Taschereau Blvd, Brossard, Quebec
Located in the Montreal suburb of Brossard, Vivaldi has offered lessons for over 20 years. The school’s experienced faculty emphasizes both technique and musicality, ensuring that students develop into confident and expressive musicians. The school also offers performance opportunities through recitals and ensemble participation.
If you are looking for a school that focuses on classical music, this may be the school for you!
Montreal has excellent violin schools for all ages and skill levels.
Online
Are you hooked on online learning? If so, you aren't alone. Students, particularly adult learners, love taking classes from the comfort of their own home. By learning online, you can avoid lengthy commutes, inclement weather, and all the discomforts that come with leaving your home.
Online learning is also an amazing choice when the local selection of music schools does not appeal to you. Working with an independent teacher is excellent if you have specific learning goals, do not want the pressure of tests and performances, or want more flexibility in your learning. You may also find that you can find a more qualified instructor outside of your hometown.
So how do you find a great online violin instructor? Look no further than Superprof Canada.
Finding a violin teacher on Superprof is easy: simply use the search tool on the site to find instructors near you that can work with you online. Take the time to explore different profiles to get a sense of the instructor's credentials and teaching style.
When you find a teacher that interests you, directly message them through the site to arrange a meeting.
Tips for Practicing the Violin
Once you have determined which school or instructor to learn violin with, the next important step is to make a plan for practice. It is hard to progress as a musician without investing additional time outside of class to work on your playing.
Violinists at all levels should have a structured and focused practice routine that is followed consistently. There are some tips to ensure you are getting the most from your learning.
Establish a Regular Routine
Setting time aside for practice and actually following through can be quite the challenge, especially if you already have a busy schedule. You need to hold yourself accountable for honouring the time it takes to hone your music skills, even if its just for 30 minutes a day.
Use your smartphone calendar to send reminders, and set a timer so you can track the amount of time you spent practicing.
Set Clear Goals
Before practice, identify a small goal that you have. Rather than just playing through sheet music, focus on a specific part of playing: bow control, vibrato, or intonation.
Reflect after practice or a week or month on whether or not you have improved or met the goal(s) you have set. This way, you can feel rewarded by your growth or be empowered to ask your instructor about where you want to improve.
Structure your Practice
Bring structure to the routine of practice by chunking your session into smaller sections that include warming up, or playing a specific passage of a song. Play simple scales, arpeggios, and bowing exercises. Allot time to focus on the areas that need the most work, and practice them with full attention.
Listen and Watch Yourself Play
To better identify areas of improvement, record a video of yourself playing the violin. Listening back will help you to hear mistakes, and provides a great way to self-assess your posture and form.
Keep videos from when you first started so you can compare how you have changed in your playing over time.
Stay Motivated
Though there will surely be days you do not want to practice, remember that practicing should always be enjoyable. Practice playing favorite songs, experiment, and celebrate your successes with small rewards.
Start Learning the Violin
Canada is a fantastic place to start to learning the violin: cities like Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Montreal have scores of music schools and instructors to choose from. Finding the right teacher and music school is key. By considering the different factors that make up a good music school, and understanding what to expect at your first violin lesson, you will be well equipped to get the most from your music learning experience.
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