Hello everyone, I just joined Fiddlerman and I am very excited. There is such much information! I have played the violin for about 20 years and am still taking lessons. So much to learn. I also play the viola, though not as well. I amm from the Midwest, retired, and teach violin at a local music store. I started playing the violin in 3rd grade and played all the way through High School. My senior year I switched to viola. Well after I graduated, I got married, had children, life got in the way. About 10 years ago I wanted to play music again and looked for an instructor. The only instructor I could find was a bluegrass instructor. So, I figured he couldd get me started and he did. I had a lot of fun playing in fiddle contest, fiddler\'s frolics, and well, just playing. A few years ago I wanted to start playing classical music again because that is what I really love. I tried to teach myself, which didn\'t seem to get me far. So, early last year I started taking lessons at a college music academy. I\'m learning so much and I\'m taking a music theory class there too. I have also purchased a couple violas and am trying to relearn them too. Retired? I think I\'m busier now than I\'ve ever been and having a ball. Well enough about me. I\'d love to hear about other\'s stringed instrument journey.rn