hi as of today i have convinced my husband to buy me a violin for my birthday he has always said no way before until i told him about electric violins and how he wont hear me much if i wear headphones. i already play the flute to grade five so the reading of the music is not a problem but wanted advice on a book to get me started i will have a few lessons from a friend who plays i really cant wait!

There's really no such thing. No reputable teacher, whether of the 'in the flesh' or in print type would ever recommend that you get started on a bowed string instrument alone. You'd be much better off reading up as much as you can generally and waiting until your friend is available to teach you. It sounds a pain, I know, but you'll lose less time this way in not having bad habits to correct when you start learning formally. It really isn't a good idea to try and teach yourself a bowed string, not even as a start off. In fact, this is probably the worst time to do it!!

Sorry not to have anything more encouraging to tell you there!

hi thanks for the reply having read a little on the subject i came to this thought as well i will have a long hard think before hubby orders it and decide if i can a afford more music lessons and b if i have enough time to practise two/ three instruments trouble is every time i hear a violin played i really really want to make that sound

monkey flute

You really do need a teacher to get you started, it's very easy to get into bad habits very early on which are very difficult to undo later on. If your friend can get you started, I'm sure they will be able to recommend a suitable book. I began with The Essential String Method - it is aimed at kids but is easy to follow and you'll be fine with open strings at first. It's just that in the beginning, a teacher can watch your posture, how to position your left hand properly and adjust your bow hold and then all the technical stuff which I still haven't worked out, which is probably why I'm not very good.

Good luck with the violin - it's a really fantastic instrument (as is the flute!).

Yeah so do I and I'm still waiting after 12 years with continuous tuition...you really do need a teacher, patience and a lot of practice time if you want to get anywhere near good.