Lovely classics

Recommended Practice Pieces for Beginner Violinists

Representative, Elysion Philharmonic Orchestrasai-kisaragi
Heisei College of Music, Composition Course. Studied composition and conducting under Keizo Ideta, piano under Chinami Kira, and arts management under Takuma Konishi. With a focus on community and music, I work to revitalize my hometown of Saga Prefecture. While performing as a double bassist with wind ensembles and orchestras across Kyushu, I participated on double bass in the “Orchestra Without Borders” orchestra camp of the professional game and anime music ensemble Eminence Orchestra, held in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture in September 2012. During CAPCOM’s Kyushu Tour in 2016, I not only performed as an orchestra member but also served on the production staff. I currently serve as the managing representative for the game and anime performance groups Elysion Philharmonic Orchestra (Saga Prefecture) and Fukuoka Game Music Wind Orchestra (Fukuoka Prefecture), and handle conducting, arranging, and public relations.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

Even as adults, many of us still dream of one day playing the violin with elegance.

When you finally take the plunge, buy a violin, and get ready to play, choosing the right practice pieces becomes very important.

If you don’t find the music engaging, you won’t keep up with practice; but if it’s too difficult, you might give up quickly.

In this article, we’ve put together a list of pieces that are perfect for beginner violin practice.

We’ve included not only classical masterpieces, but also popular tunes that are favorites for violin performance.

These are all well-known songs, and there are plenty of beginner-friendly arrangements available, so you can feel confident starting out.

Recommended practice pieces for beginner violinists (61–70)

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Starfuransu min’yō

After buying a violin, try playing the 7-day menu piece “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.”

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Starfuransu min'yō

This piece originates from a French chanson.

Born in the 18th century, it became a beloved children’s song worldwide through English-language parody lyrics.

Thanks to its simple melody, it’s perfect for beginners on the violin.

Composed with a limited range of pitches, it’s ideal for learning basic fingering.

There’s also an arrangement playable with the left hand alone, so those with limited use of their right hand can enjoy it as well.

It’s recommended for adults starting the violin, too—beginning with a familiar tune can help ease any anxiety about the instrument.

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From Zigeunerweisen ‘Sonata in D minor’Furanchesuko Maria Verachīni

[Yukkuri model performance] Gigue: Veracini — Gigue from Sonata in D Minor: F. M. Veracini, SUZUKI Violin Book 5, slow tempo

From Zigeunerweisen 'Sonata in D minor'Furanchesuko Maria Verachīni

A famous violin piece that has been beloved for many years and often appears as an assignment for recitals.

Its melody unfolds in a beautiful, elegant minor key.

Because a variety of notes—such as slurs and double stops—appear within a relatively fast tempo, it’s important to play each element carefully and precisely.

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GavotteBekka

[Becker: Gavotte] Suzuki Method Book 3 — Becker Gavotte (Suzuki Book Vol. 3)

GavotteBekka

Becker initially served as an organist, then as a violinist in a church, and in 1667 he received the title of Kapellmeister (music director).

Becker’s chamber works were important instrumental pieces in Germany at the time.

In Japan, the G minor Gavotte included in Shinichi Suzuki’s violin method is well known.

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Long, Long AgoBeirī

Violin Solo – Long Long Ago

Long, Long AgoBeirī

“Long Long Ago (Memories)” was composed in 1833 by the British musician Thomas Haynes Bayly.

In Japan, it is known as the Ministry of Education’s school song “Hisashiki Mukashi,” translated by Sakufū Kondō.

It is a familiar piece often included in children’s piano practice collections.

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In conclusion

I’ve introduced recommended practice pieces ranging from classical to popular songs that even beginners can play.

This isn’t unique to the violin, but when it comes to learning an instrument, the most important thing is to keep at it—and you won’t keep at it unless you’re enjoying yourself.

If you overreach and try something too difficult, you may end up frustrated.

Start by practicing pieces like the ones I introduced this time, choose songs you love, and learn to play them solidly—those successes will build your confidence and make you love the violin even more! I look forward to the day I can hear you play.