In the world of classical music, being a professional violinist is a dream for many of us. But how do you go from enthusiast to truly accomplished musician? What’s the path to follow and the steps needed to get there? This article provides some answers, outlining the crucial stages of training and skills development required to succeed in this demanding career.
Start studying music at an early age
One of the keys to securing a place in the professional world of music is to start training early. Indeed, it is generally recommended to start learning the violin at the age of 5 or 6, or even earlier, depending on the child’s abilities. According to specialists, the violin-specific games and exercises offered to children help them rapidly develop not only their musical ear, but also their sense of rhythm and coordination.
Further training at prestigious schools and conservatories
To hope to become a recognized violinist, you need to achieve a certain level of proficiency and thus follow a rigorous academic curriculum in music. Institutions such as conservatories, music colleges or universities are all places where aspiring violinists can receive solid, in-depth training.
Choosing a conservatory or music school
Depending on the country, admission procedures and training levels may differ. In most cases, however, it is necessary to pass an entrance examination, which validates the candidate’s skills and enables us to judge whether the required level has been reached to enter the chosen course. It is therefore vital for young apprentices to be well supervised from an early age, so as to learn to master the instrument and its techniques, while preparing effectively for the demands of the selection tests.
Obtain your professional diploma
In order to practice as a professional violinist, it is absolutely necessary to obtain a diploma certifying one’s skills and qualifications following training. In France, for example, the Diplôme d’Études Musicales (DEM) and the Diplôme National Supérieur Professionnel de Musicien (DNSPM) are recognized certifications that attest to the musician’s know-how and talent.
Specialize in a specific field
There are a number of possible specializations for violinists: chamber music, symphony orchestra, baroque music and so on. Each path requires specific skills and knowledge that must be acquired during the course of one’s studies. This specialization can also take place after graduation, during internships, masterclasses or through continuing education, depending on individual aspirations.
Continuous training to perfect technique and interpretation
The violin is a demanding and complex instrument, requiring excellent technical mastery, great musical sensitivity and regular work on the instrument. To reach the level required to be a professional, it is therefore advisable to train daily throughout one’s career, even after graduation.
Develop your professional network
In addition to academic rigor and hard work on the instrument, the violinist must also build up a solid network of contacts among musicians, teachers and other players in the musical world in which he or she wishes to evolve. Taking part in concerts, competitions and masterclasses are all opportunities to make yourself known and forge links with your peers. This can greatly facilitate the search for professional opportunities.
Gain recognition through national and international competitions
To break into the classical music world and attract the attention of agents and artistic directors, winning a prize in a prestigious competition is a major asset. Violin competitions (whether national or international) offer great opportunities for media exposure and, if successful, can open the doors to an international career.
Joining a professional orchestra
Access to professional training, such as symphony orchestras, is a milestone for violinists. Joining an orchestra not only allows you to practice at a high level, but also to expand your professional network and gain access to more career opportunities.
Throughout this article, we’ve seen how necessary it is to follow a path strewn with different training courses and experiences to succeed in becoming a professional violinist. Learning the violin from an early age, entering and succeeding at renowned conservatories, obtaining a recognized diploma and regular practice will all be keys to then entering the professional world of violin, whether you’re a man or a woman.
