[Ilasky]

I started learning violin about 4 years ago. I used to play saxophone, but always loved classical.

To say that the beginning was rough is an understatement. Violin (and any string instrument, really) is just difficult, plain and simple.

But daily practice, private lessons, and I’m able to play pieces that I’ve only heard recordings of. Sure, it’s not professional, but it brings me immense joy to be able to have my hands and fingers know what to do on instinct now.

Private lessons for me were the key: accountability and expertise at every step. Self-learning would have been so much slower.

The more you learn, and I’m sure it’s like this with any art, the more you realize there’s so much nuance to it and that there’s always room to improve.