Step One: Acquiring and setting up your fiddle

In this free video guide, I take you through all the steps, from buying to playing your fiddle.

NOTE: If multiple videos are loading at once, this page will get slow! I recommend that you refresh the page each time you open a new video.


Beginner's guide to purchasing a new fiddle.

In this video, I go to eBay and purchase a new beginner fiddle. This is an inexpensive way to get started. This level of fiddle will probably satisfy you for a couple of years until you decide to get a better one. I also give tips on how to determine what size fiddle you need. This is a must-see video if you are wanting to purchase a decent instrument but are not sure that you want to spend a lot of money!


Beginner's guide to setting up your new fiddle: Part 1

In this video, I open my brand-new new fiddle, inspect it, and set it up. I talk about the different parts of the fiddle, and show you how to set up the strings and to place the bridge in the correct position.


Beginner's guide to setting up your new fiddle: Part 2

In this video, I focus on tuning. Using an app called "Violin Tuner," I tune this brand new violin for the first time. I discuss how to keep the bridge straight, and how to use the fine tuners in conjunction with the tuning pegs.


Beginner's guide to setting up your new fiddle: Part 3

In this video, I focus on the bow. Starting with a brand new bow, I show you how to condition it and get it ready for playing your first notes.


Beginner's guide to holding the fiddle and bow.

In this video, I give a quick introduction to holding the fiddle and the bow. Now you are ready to start playing!

Click here to continue to Step 2: Learning to read tablature