While teachers can provide invaluable guidance, having a book to refer to outside of class can make a significant difference in your progress.
Books provide a wealth of information on technique, theory, and even history, which can deepen your understanding of the violin and music as a whole. Plus, having a book on hand means you can practice on your own time, without having to rely solely on your teacher’s availability.
When choosing a violin book, it’s essential to consider your skill level and the specific areas you want to focus on. For beginners, a book with clear, step-by-step instructions can be especially helpful. For intermediate and advanced players, books that delve deeper into technique and repertoire can be a great resource.
Overall, combining the guidance of a music teacher with the resources and knowledge found in a violin book is a powerful combination. With the right book, you can become self-sufficient in your learning and continue to improve your violin skills even outside of class.
Top 11 Best Violin Books
Below are some top-selling violin books that can guide any beginner-level player through their text content and other resources.
| Product | Rating |
|---|---|
| Suzuki Volume 1 | 4.7 |
| Suzuki Volume 2 | 4.8 |
| Suzuki Volume 3 | 4.8 |
| Suzuki Volume 4 | 4.9 |
| Suzuki Volume 5 | 4.8 |
| Suzuki Volume 6 | 4.8 |
| Suzuki Volume 7 | 4.8 |
| Essential Elements 1 | 4.7 |
| Essential Elements 2 | 4.8 |
| 115VN Book 1 | 4.6 |
| 78VN Book 1 | 4.8 |
1. Suzuki Violin School by Shinichi Suzuki – Volume 1
When I came across the Suzuki Violin School books, I knew I had to give them a try. I was particularly impressed with the first volume, which lays out the principles of the Suzuki Method and its philosophy.
What I love about this method is that it believes that children can excel at music from an early age with the right guidance and nurturing environment. The Suzuki Violin School books provide just that, with clear instructions and helpful exercises that are easy for young and adult players alike to understand.
The first volume of the Suzuki Violin School series is the perfect introduction to this method. It includes all the basic techniques, such as bowing, fingering, and posture, that a beginner needs to know. What’s more, the book comes with accompanying recordings that make it easy to practice at home and ensure that you’re playing with the right intonation.
The Suzuki Violin School series, particularly the first volume, is for any beginner looking to improve their skills and learn the fundamentals of the Suzuki Method.
Features
- Introduces the Suzuki Method
- 48 pages
Pros
- Easy learning with a book and CD
- Available in four languages (English, Spanish, French, and German)
Cons
- Quite challenging for new players
2. Suzuki Violin School by Shinichi Suzuki – Volume 2
The second volume of this series comes with a CD that features expert violin and piano recordings that students can listen to and learn from. I have personally used this edition with my students, and I find it to be an excellent interactive learning tool.
By listening to the recordings, students can improve their intonation and phrasing, which are essential skills for any violin player.
The guide in this edition is comprehensive, and it covers various techniques such as double stops, vibrato, and staccato. The lessons are designed to be progressive, so students can build upon the skills they learned in the first volume.
Overall, the second volume of the Suzuki Violin School book series is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to learn the violin, whether they are children or adults. The combination of the guide and CD creates an engaging and interactive learning environment that can help students improve their skills and develop a love for violin music.
Features
- Book and CD
- 39 pages
Pros
- Great learning source for beginners
- Interactive learning
Cons
- The quality of the Kindle version should be improved.
3. Suzuki Violin School by Shinichi Suzuki – Volume 3
I always encourage beginners to focus on improving their tones, and the third volume of the Suzuki Violin School book perfectly aligns with this philosophy. I had the chance to use this book with some of my students, and the results were impressive.
The exercises in this book are thoughtfully designed to help students perfect their vibrato and explore different styles. The CD included with the book is a great addition, providing an interactive learning experience for students.
Whether you are a self-taught musician or a student under the guidance of a teacher, this book is an excellent resource to have in your collection. The Suzuki Violin School series is well-known for its effective teaching methods, and the third volume is no exception.
Features
- Ample exercises
- 28 pages
Pros
- Includes notation guide
- Available in three formats (paperback, kindle, and audio)
Cons
- Not suitable for higher-level learning
4. Suzuki Violin School by Shinichi Suzuki – Volume 4
The Suzuki Violin School’s fourth volume offers an array of engaging lessons and repertoire for intermediate-level violinists. The book emphasizes slow and steady learning, which is perfect for those who want to improve their skills at a comfortable pace.
This book has a variety of pieces that are both pleasant and challenging to play. The lessons in this volume teach new techniques and concepts that will help intermediate-level students progress further.
It’s important to note that while this book is suitable for intermediate-level students, it may not be the best option for beginners or young learners without the guidance of a private tutor. However, for intermediate-level violinists looking to enhance their skills, this book is definitely worth considering.
Features
- Includes pleasant songs for easy learning
- 32 pages
Pros
- Improved difficulty level from previous volumes
- Suitable for advanced players
Cons
- May need additional help from a personal trainer
5. Suzuki Violin School by Shinichi Suzuki – Volume 5
This volume is perfect for intermediate-level violinists who want to take their playing to the next level. One of the best things about this book is that it contains pieces from various classical composers, giving students a well-rounded and comprehensive learning experience.
The structure of this book is impeccable, with a balanced difficulty level that keeps things exciting yet not too challenging.
As someone who has been playing the violin for years, I can say that this book has helped me improve my skills significantly. The lessons are easy to follow, and the repertoire is incredibly enjoyable to play.
Overall, volume 5 of Suzuki Violin School is an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their skills and broaden their repertoire. Whether you’re a student or a teacher, this book will undoubtedly enhance your learning experience.
Features
- It contains varied pieces to harness violin skills
- Improved readability with new engravings
- 36 pages
Pros
- Available in audio paperback, kindle, and (CD) formats.
- Excellent source for learning new skills
Cons
- Suitable for beginners only
6. Suzuki Violin School by Shinichi Suzuki – Volume 6
As someone who has used the Suzuki Violin School books, I can attest to the fact that volume 6 is an excellent resource for intermediate violin players. The revised edition has added new and engaging pieces to help students continue to develop their skills.
The book contains various photographs and descriptive texts that make it easy to read and learn. It’s like having a private tutor with you all the time.
The pieces included in this book allow you to practice different violin techniques and learn new ones.
Moreover, the sheet music for each piece is also available separately, so you can practice playing along with the piano or with other violinists.
Features
- Includes many new pieces
- 32 pages
Pros
- Well-balanced difficulty level
- Excellent source for music teachers
Cons
- Not available in audio/CD format
7. Suzuki Violin School by Shinichi Suzuki – Volume 7
When I decided to improve my violin skills, I turned to the Suzuki Violin School series. I found volume 7 particularly useful for my practice sessions. This book includes numerous pieces that helped me develop my skills by providing specific instructions and practice techniques.
One of the unique features of this book is its attention to detail. The book contains many helpful tips and tricks that made the learning process much more manageable for me.
Additionally, the photos and instructional texts made it easy for me to follow along with each lesson.
However, I must note that this volume might not be the best choice for those trying to learn violin skills at home. The Suzuki Method, which this volume is a part of, is designed to work best when someone trained is nearby to help guide and instruct the learner. So, if you’re looking to improve your skills on your own, you may want to consider a different book.
Features
- Includes high-quality recordings
- 36 pages
Pros
- Easy to learn
- It contains many bowing tips
Cons
- Kindle format not available
8. Essential Elements for Strings – Violin Book 1
As a beginner violinist, I was on the lookout for a book that would help me get started with the instrument. That’s when I came across the Essential Elements of Strings book 1, and it has been an excellent resource for me.
The book starts with the basics of the violin, including its parts and how to hold it correctly. The exercises and songs are well-structured and help me develop my technique gradually. The songs are also enjoyable, and it keeps me motivated to keep practicing.
The digital resources that come with the book, such as CDs and online library access, are a significant advantage. The CDs allow me to hear how the songs are supposed to sound, and the online library access gives me access to a range of additional resources.
One thing that stood out to me was how the book describes sheet music and teaches how to read it. I found this section very useful, especially as someone who had no prior experience with reading sheet music.
Features
- It gives access to digital resources
- 48 pages
Pros
- Great for classroom learning
- Well-organized chapters
- Easy-to-follow instructions
Cons
- Not for individuals, as you may need extra help from a music teacher
- Not available in Kindle format
9. Essential Elements for Strings – Violin Book 2
Essential Elements for Strings book 2 is especially useful for those who want to take their skills to the next level. It introduces more complex skills and techniques that will help you to become a better player. The book also includes a wide range of songs, so you will not get bored with your practice routine.
One of the things I love about this book is that it comes with a digital library access code. This means that you can access the audio tracks and videos online to help you with your practice.
The book also includes a DVD that features lesson demonstrations and performances by professional musicians.
Overall, Essential Elements for Strings book 2 is a must-have for intermediate-level violinists who want to further improve their skills. With its comprehensive lessons and digital resources, this book will help you to become a better violin player in no time.
Features
- New lessons
- 48 pages
Pros
- Available in spiral-bound and paperback formats
- Supports self-learning
Cons
- Not suitable for pro players
10. 115VN – String Basics – Book 1
One book that stood out to me was String Basics. This all-in-one book provides a complete sequence of learning the violin, making it a valuable resource for both students and teachers.
String Basics is well-structured, starting from the basics and gradually moving to more advanced techniques. This book covers everything, from learning how to hold the violin to playing vibrato. The stepwise sequence of learning makes it easy to follow and progress through the lessons.
What sets String Basics apart is its interactive materials, such as videos and audio files, which provide an immersive and engaging learning experience. These materials are accessible through the book’s online resources, which students can access through a unique code provided in the book.
I found String Basics to be an excellent learning resource that covers everything a beginner violinist needs to know. The book’s interactive materials provide a more engaging learning experience, making it an excellent choice for students who prefer a more multimedia approach to learning. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, String Basics is an excellent resource that can help you develop your skills and take your playing to the next level.
Features
- Easy learning with audio and video lessons
- Includes chart diagrams and color photos
- 48 pages
Pros
- Provides ample practice material
- Delivers both theoretical and practical knowledge
Cons
- Kindle format not available
11. 78VN – All For Strings – Book 1
As a beginner-level violinist, I was on the hunt for a comprehensive guidebook that could help me learn the basics of the instrument. That’s when I stumbled upon the three-volume set of All for Strings.
The first volume covers all the essential basics that a beginner should know, including the different parts of the violin, bowing techniques, and playing posture. I found the lessons to be well-structured, and the progression felt natural.
As I worked my way through the book, I could feel myself improving day by day. The exercises were challenging yet doable, and the songs were pleasant to listen to. Moreover, the text was easy to read and understand, which made it a joy to learn from.
The All for Strings series is for anyone who is looking to start their violin learning journey. The book is comprehensive, well-structured, and easy to understand, making it an excellent resource for beginners.
Features
- Best book for education purposes
- 48 pages
Pros
- Suitable for both young and adult players
- Develops technical and performance skills
Cons
- It should be available in Kindle format.
CHECK OUR BEST VIOLA BOOKS REVIEW
Frequently Asked Questions
Remember, books support your theoretical knowledge and encourage self-learning. You can read relevant books and learn almost any instrument to some extent. However, your violin skills will develop more in classroom sessions under the guidance of a music teacher.
A good violin book is one that presents information in a well-structured manner, supported by enough color photos and diagrams. It should also give you access to extra digital resources, such as media library, video and audio tutorials, etc.
Our Top Pick
Of course, 115VN – String Basics by Terry Shade and Jeremy Woolstenhulme should be our top pick. There are so many reasons why this particular book stands out from others. First, it covers an entire syllabus that is essential for a novice. Moreover, it supports self-learning, meaning you don’t need a personal trainer to guide you on every concept mentioned in the book.
