Getting Started
Read below for an introduction on getting your first fiddle, as well as a brief overview of some Celtic fiddle music styles that you can learn to play
What size fiddle should I get?
A fiddle is sized proportional to you, up to a full sized (4/4) fiddle. The sizing chart here outlines what size you should look for depending on your arm length. If you choose anything below a 4/4 size, you may want to consider a rent-to-own option so you can switch out the instrument as you grow.
Most everyone teens-and-up will likely fit a 4/4 (full size) fiddle.
There are many circumstances where you may not be ready to commit to buying a fiddle, so you may want to look into a rent or rent-to-own option (Some options in Ottawa include The Sound Post and Long & McQuade.)
If you have a membership with the Ottawa Public Library, you may also be able to borrow a violin for a limited time.
Renting also gives you the opportunity to try out the instrument as you get used to it. For a beginner, a student level model will be perfectly adequate to help you learn the instrument, and will give you a base of reference for your own playing style.
Buy, or
Rent-to-own?
Besides the fiddle and bow, what do I need?
While you can get started with just the fiddle and a bow, there are some extra pieces that are either necessary to keep playing, or that might make your life easier in the long run. I go over all of these items in my introductory lesson.
Required:
-
A fiddle case
-
A bow
-
Rosin
-
Tuner
Additional:
-
Music stand
-
Shoulder rest
-
Fiddle Stand
-
Metronome
Types of Fiddle Tunes
Celtic fiddle is incredibly varied, but here are some sample types of tunes you are likely to encounter, each has a different feel but a common theme amongst fiddle music is that they are intended to dance to, so they all have an infectious rhythm you'll want to tap your feet to.
Jigs
One of the most easily recognizable tunes in Irish fiddle, these are often bright, lively, and heavy with ornamentation
Example tune: Morrison's Jig
Reels
The most common tune in fiddle music, these exciting tunes are often played with drive that makes them feel faster than other tunes.
Example tune: Drowsy Maggie
Hornpipes
Hornpipes are played with a distinct bounce or swing, they are often played at a steadier tempo than jigs or reels with more of a focus on rhythm than ornamentation
Example tune: Boys of Blue Hill
Polkas
Thought to originate in Poland, these tunes were likely introduced to Ireland after the Napoleonic wars. Like hornpipes, they focus more on rhythm than ornamentation
Example tune: John Ryan's Polka
Airs
Designed for listening over dancing, these beautiful songs are slower, more melodic, and often allow for more expression for the player
Example tune: Hector the Hero