SMMC would like to congratulate violin student Alexander G. for earning the “Student Of The Month” award for March 2026. Alexander has been taking violin lessons with SMMC since June of last year. When Alexander started his lessons, he had already been learning to play the instrument. It was very clear right away that Alexander is an inspired young music student. Alexander recently performed at San Marino Music Center’s Winter Recital in January of this year. He gave an outstanding performance which you will be able to enjoy below.
On Learning The Violin
Violin students face many challenges when they first start to learn the instrument. To begin with, violin posture can be awkward for a new student. Fixing the instrument just under your chin with your shoulders back and head off to one side is not as easy as it looks. It takes endurance to hold this position for long periods of time. Consequently, many young violin students are encouraged with games to get into the habit of having good posture. The “statue” game is one where the student holds good posture for 15-30 seconds while the teacher attempts to make the student laugh. Another is “Simon Says” with the teacher giving prompts to get into good position.
Next, the left hand operates in and entirely different manner than the right hand. The left hand is used to pinch the strings of the instrument in order to play different notes. The right hand is used to bow the string and that itself has it’s own technique that needs to be mastered! Right from the start, beginners need good fine and gross motor skills to progress quickly.
Another challenge for beginners is intonation. Unlike the guitar where the notes are clearly seen by looking at the frets, the notes on the violin fretboard are not seen in the same way. You have to listen to the pitch and your ear grows accustomed to what the correct sound is. Many instructors will employ the use of finger tapes or stickers to help beginners with finger placement. Without this tool, a beginner’s ability to play in tune will be compromised and the student can quickly become discouraged.
In His Teacher’s Words
Alexander takes violin lessons at SMMC with Ms. Xochitl Martinez. Xochitl is an accomplished violinists who also teaches beginning viola. Xochitl is a seasoned performer who has played with orchestras in the U.S. and abroad. She has also performed at various private events and recorded original music in various music groups. She received her Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance from the Monterrey College of Music and Dance in Monterey, Mexico.
Of Alexander, Ms. Martinez writes: “I have been teaching Alex for about eight months. From the beginning, it was clear that he is a dedicated, disciplined, and intelligent student. When we began our lessons, Alex already had some experience with the violin, but I noticed a few foundational elements were missing from his technique. Once we started focusing on these areas, he approached the work with great seriousness and made noticeable progress almost immediately. Alex not only practices consistently, but he also understands the reasoning behind theory behind the instruction and how it applies to his playing. This insight allows him to find solutions on his own. Alex often anticipates my suggestions, showing his capacity to be an excellent observer. I am excited to see where Alex’s violin journey will take him in the future and I look forward to continue to be a part of his journey.
Alexander’s Performance
In January, Alexander performed in San Marino Music Center’s Winter Recital. We invite you to enjoy the full performance below!
Start Your Musical Journey
Surely, you or your child are ready to get yourselves started on your musical journey! In that case, our wonderful teachers are eager to work with you. Study with degreed educators who have years of experience. Whether you are a beginner, have not played for years, or looking to make the jump to intermediate or advance level, our teachers have the tools to help you achieve your ambition! Book a trial lesson today!