[Violin] Recommended practice pieces for violin beginners. Famous pieces you’ll want to try playing.

Gavotte (Composed by Bach)J.S.Bach

Gavotte from Partita No. 3 / Bach (Gavotte / Bach)

This dance piece composed by the Baroque master Johann Sebastian Bach may be a perfect practice piece for beginning violinists.

Born in 1685, Bach came from a family of musicians and lost his parents at a young age, yet he continued his musical education under his brother.

This work has a lively, rhythmic character and is not particularly demanding technically.

Bach believed that “music exists for the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul,” and that sentiment seems to be reflected in this piece as well.

It is recommended for those who have just started playing an instrument or who are beginning to take an interest in classical music.

By practicing slowly and steadily, you should be able to feel the depth of Bach’s music.

Merry-Go-Round of Life ~ Howl’s Moving Castle ~Hisaishi Joe

[Sheet Music] “Merry-Go-Round of Life” from Howl’s Moving Castle (Violin & Piano) ≪Ghibli pieces even beginners can play≫

I’d like to introduce the theme song from a Studio Ghibli masterpiece.

Composed by Joe Hisaishi, this piece uses a waltz rhythm to express the flow of life.

It appears in various scenes throughout the film, with changes in tempo and rhythm that convey emotion.

Since it’s in triple meter, practice so you can keep a steady beat.

If you can’t keep up with the tempo, start slowly and gradually work up to a faster pace.

It’s easier to learn when you already know the tune, which makes it easier to start practicing and boosts your motivation.

You can’t go wrong learning Studio Ghibli pieces, so be sure to add them to your repertoire!

Stroll ~My Neighbor Totoro~Hisaishi Joe

Stroll (My Neighbor Totoro) – Violin Cover

This is the opening theme of the anime My Neighbor Totoro.

While Sanpo is originally an anime song, it is sometimes categorized as a children’s song and is usually included in collections of nursery rhymes.

It is a standard piece for kindergarten and elementary school play activities and for school sports day marches, and it also appears in textbooks.

Since it’s fun for children to sing, with practice you’ll be able to play it on the violin quite soon as well.

There is a leap in the part that goes “Watashi wa genki~,” but practice slowly and make sure to hit the correct pitches.

For the bouncy feel, be sure to synchronize your fingers and bowing precisely.

Love’s GreetingEdward Elgar

'Salut d'Amour' A must-see for beginner violinists. You can play it entirely in first position.

When it comes to masterpieces by Edward Elgar, one of Britain’s proudest composers, this piece surely comes to mind.

Composed with thoughts of his fiancée, the music exudes a warm, blissful atmosphere.

Alongside its graceful melody, it conveys profound affection for a loved one.

It’s a perfect piece for those just starting the violin, and many beginner-friendly arrangements have been published.

When you perform it, try to feel Elgar’s emotions as you play, paying close attention to the movement of your left hand.

You’ll surely find practicing it enjoyable.

Air on the G StringJ.S.Bach

[With Sheet Music] Tried playing Air on the G String using only 1st position

A masterpiece by Johann Sebastian Bach, a giant of Baroque music.

Its gentle development and exquisite harmonies create a refined and graceful atmosphere, making it a gem of a piece.

It is said to have been composed around 1731, when Bach was serving at the Köthen court.

Beloved by many listeners for its beautiful melody and harmonies, this work is also recommended for beginner violinists: you can focus on simple left-hand movements while cultivating rich expressiveness.

With many sustained notes, it is well suited for practicing bowing and developing a resonant tone.

A moving classic perfect for ceremonies such as weddings.

butterflySupein min’yō

Shinichi Suzuki Violin School Volume 1 No. 39 “Lightly Row” – Instructor’s Model Performance

For beginner violinists, a perfect practice piece is a Japanese school song based on a German children’s song.

Known for its bright and lively melody, this piece is beloved by children and was included in the first volume of the Elementary School Song Collection published by the Ministry of Education in 1881.

The lyrics, written by Akiashi Nomura, depict butterflies fluttering from rape blossoms to cherry blossoms, evoking harmony with nature and the changing seasons.

With its simple, familiar melody and lyrics, it’s ideal for those wishing to build fundamental violin techniques.

Aim for an elegant tone and practice slowly and carefully.

Amaryllisfuransu min’yō

Amaryllis

It was featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” and is also included in elementary school textbooks.

Many people have probably played it on the recorder.

It is said to have been composed by King Louis XIII of France.

The amaryllis is a large flower in the amaryllis family with a lily-like shape.

My Heart Will Go OnJames Horner

For absolute beginner violinists: “My Heart Will Go On” (Theme from the film Titanic) played in 1st position

For those of you who have just started playing the violin, I highly recommend James Horner’s “My Heart Will Go On.” This beloved classic resonates with many and doubles the joy of performing with its moving melody.

Though simple, it’s deeply touching and easy to grasp even for first-time violinists, and with practice you’ll surely feel yourself improving.

This beautiful piece brings out the charm of violin performance and will inspire you to rediscover the wonder of music.

RomanceLudwig van Beethoven

9. Romance / Beethoven

It’s a relaxed, slow-tempo piece that’s easy even for beginners to play, but you’ll need solid practice beforehand if you plan to perform it in front of others.

I highly recommend it as a gateway piece for advancing from a novice level toward graduation.

sunflowerHakasé Tarō

“Sunflower” that even violin beginners can play

For beginners taking on the violin, I highly recommend Taro Hakase’s “Himawari” (Sunflower).

With its heartwarming melody and gentle tempo, this piece lets you fully enjoy the violin’s resonance.

Taro Hakase is known for his outstanding performance and composition skills, and has captivated audiences with a wide range of works, including Céline Dion’s “To Love You More.” As its title suggests, “Himawari” infuses sound with longing and hope, delivering a positive message to both performers and listeners.

It’s also approachable for those just starting violin practice, allowing you to develop your technique while having fun.