Learning the Violin

How long does it take to learn the violin? How much work is involved in becoming a master violinist? How much of it is hard work, and how much is natural talent?

First of all, most people can play "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" on a violin after an hour of assisted practice. It will sound terrible. But it is a start. And most people can learn chess in about the same amount of time.

Like Chess, violin mastery requires a huge commitment in study and practice. Like chess an early start and immersion in the classics is helpful.

Simple things like tuning the violin, and running scales must be done over and over. A good musician practices for hours nearly every day. This must be continued for years. It is the same for chess progress.

Even then few violinists become masters. Most run out of drive. This is linked in part to running out of talent. Mastery takes both.

Now I love chess. I want to improve. But I have no illusions about being great. I am an adult with a job. I have a wife and kids. Chess is not my life. So I guess I don't have what it takes. I am too old and busy for Chess mastery. But I can still get stronger, do my best, and have fun.

A few years ago, I was playing fiddle with some friends. I told them that I prayed to God to be able to play the fiddle. I wanted to play so badly.

My friend said, "God answered your prayer. You do play the fiddle so badly!"

I only hope that when I enter a Chess tournament this Summer or Fall that I will not play badly.