How many hours does it take to become proficient on the violin?

Question:For instance, if someone practices 5 hours a week, that's 260 hours a year. At that rate how long would it take to be able to play well?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: For instance, if someone practices 5 hours a week, that's 260 hours a year. At that rate how long would it take to be able to play well?

I wouldn't count the hours....but the years! You could become a decent player with focused practice in 1-2 years. But to become truly proficient you could dedicate your entire life to the instrument. It's very rewarding to play so find yourself a good teacher and have fun!

Don't overdo the practicing though - you could risk injury.

I say 8 hours a day if you have the time. If you don't, 3-5 on the weekdays, 8 on the weekends. By the end of a year, you could become Paganini's apprentice..lol.

There has been all kinds of speculation about this, but it really has to do with the quality of the practice, the student's environment, the quality of their instrument, and most of all -- whatever gifts they may have.

If you aren't proficient at the violin, why are you in the Performing Arts section?