Playing the violin is almost magical. Parents learn that children who play violin do better in school, especially in math and courses that require logic and critical thought. Adults who play find that an hour or so of playing wipes away the pressures of today's care-filled world.

The violin has something to offer everyone. Much like learning to play chess, one can learn the basics in a relatively short time. Mastering the finer points, just as in mastering chess, can take a life-time of practice and study.

Players who enjoy a challenge may strive to perfect some of the great violin compositions, while others may work on replicating the incredibly fast fiddling found in some bluegrass and Cajun music. Those who just want to play for the simple enjoyment of it will find the violin is portable, requires no amplifiers, fits into every style of popular and classical music, and a general competence of the instrument commands respect among even the most jaded of musicians. Playing the violin garners respect in all circles of society.

The really great news about playing the violin is that it's a lot easier to learn than most of us have been led to believe. All it takes is the desire to play, the willingness to learn, and the dedication to practice some every day.

If you (or your child) would like to learn to play, you've come to the right place.

Shandy is an experienced, respected violin teacher, who is as comfortable teaching the basics to a grade-school student as she is performing with a large symphony.

Explore some of the links at the left, and learn more about Shandy, playing violin, and the great, thrilling world of strings.

If you'd like to know more about taking lessons, please use the "Contact Shady" link on the left. She always replies to the correspondence she receives, though if she's in the middle of class, or preparing for a performance, it may be a day or so before she sees the email and can respond.