Free Guide for Violinists

Stop Making the 8 Practice Mistakes That Kill Your Progress

The Virtuoso's Guide to Daily Practice — Learn what great players do differently in the practice room

By Nathan Cole
Concertmaster, Boston Symphony Orchestra

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The 8 Practice Mistakes

You'll discover the exact mistakes that separate great players from the rest — and how to fix them starting today

You're Missing the Mindset of Success

Practice doesn't make perfect; it makes performance. Learn how to define success appropriately in the practice room.

You're Making a Bad Sound

Great players commit to making a great sound whenever their bow contacts the string. Discover why sound quality is everything.

You're Working Too Hard

Playing the violin isn't supposed to feel like manual labor. Learn how to strip away unneeded effort and perceived difficulty.

Your Short-Term Expectations Are Unrealistic

Progress isn't always linear. Discover how to be honest with yourself and tackle problems you can actually solve.

You Don't Have Long-Term Goals

Without goals, you won't get better over time. Learn the simple framework: what (repertoire), when (date), and where (occasion).

You're Not Practicing for Performance

Are you just getting in shape for the next practice session? Discover how to practice as if for performance from day one.

You Only Have One Practice Tool

If the only tool you have is a hammer (or metronome), everything looks like a nail. Learn the full toolbox of practice techniques.

You're Missing Basic Techniques

Mindset is crucial, but solid technique is vital. Discover how to acquire and sharpen your tools while practicing efficiently.

Nathan Cole

Concertmaster, Boston Symphony Orchestra

I've been helping violinists online for more than twenty years. From Curtis Institute to the Chicago Symphony and LA Philharmonic, and now as Concertmaster of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, I've identified the key things that the best players do — and don't do — in the practice room.

This guide distills decades of professional experience into actionable insights that will transform your practice today. Whether you're hitting a plateau or looking to reach the next level, these 8 mistakes are standing between you and your best playing.