Mr. Williams was inspired to play by his grandfather, Howard Turnbull, who started playing as a teen, put down the violin for 40 years, and began playing again around age 60.  Howard's passion for playing allowed him to relearn how to play to the point he was able to start the Silver Strings Bluegrass Band.  Their whole philosophy was to have fun playing and share their fun and music with others.

 

Anyone with a passion to play an instrument can learn how to play!  Maybe not everyone can make it to Carnegie Hall or the Grand Ole Opry, but anyone can play and have fun. Mr. Williams is happy to work with anyone who has a passion and will help to develop their playing with proper technique to achieve the student's musical goals.  

 

Mr. Williams teaches "traditionally," meaning learning how to play while reading music. Beginners start with a basic beginners method book, learning technique and music reading simultaneously.  As students develop, they continue to develop their skills through etude studies and classical repertoire.  Once a student's technique is developed, they can start to span into alternative styles of music and ensembles, as musically appropriate.  

 

When is it appropriate for a student to start learning a stringed instrument? Most children have the maturity and physical skills available at age 8-9 (Grade 3 or 4) to start learning how to play a stringed instrument.  For younger children, Mr. Williams generally recommends if they are just interested in music, to start with some piano lessons, as piano is a great basis for all things musical.  If a child is really passionate about starting the violin (or any string instrument) at a younger age, Mr. Williams can recommend area teachers who take younger children.  Children must be proficient at reading and be able to remain focused for a 30 minute lesson to take lessons.  Contact Mr. Williams with questions or concerns about starting lessons.