Easy violin reading for young beginners
The Real Book for Beginning Violin Students (A and E Strings)
What Is This Book?
The Real Book for Beginning Violin Students (A and E Strings) is a step-by-step music reading book designed specifically for new violin players using only the A and E strings. Through seventy well-known songs written with just six notes, students build confidence reading notes on the staff while playing real, recognizable melodies. The book gradually removes visual aids so children move smoothly from note names in the notes to independent reading.
Who Is This Book For?
This book is ideal for young violin beginners in approximately grades 1–5, or any new player in their first year of study. It works well for school string programs, Suzuki and traditional private lessons, homeschoolers, and independent home learners. Teachers can also use it in group classes, orchestra sectionals, and mixed-level ensembles with other “Real Book” editions.
What Makes This Book Easy for Kids to Learn?
Kid-friendly, extra-large notation makes every note easy to see and follow. In the first half of the book, letter names are printed inside the noteheads, helping children quickly match staff positions to finger placements on the violin. In the second half, the letters disappear, gently challenging students to rely on their growing reading skills. Each page presents a small, manageable amount of music so beginners are never overwhelmed. Clear diagrams, simple layouts, and uncomplicated instructions guide students step-by-step through the reading process.
What Music Does the Book Include?
The Real Book for Beginning Violin Students (A and E Strings) features a large collection of classic, time-tested songs that use only six notes on the A and E strings. Students play familiar folk tunes and popular melodies that are instantly recognizable and fun to practice. This variety introduces young players to different musical styles while keeping the technical demands comfortably within beginner level.
Are There Fun Extras Included?
This book focuses on the music itself and does not include additional extras.
What’s Inside the Book?
Extra-large music notation
Letter names inside the noteheads in the first half of the book
Same songs without letter names in the second half of the book
Simplified, beginner-friendly arrangements using only six notes
Clear, uncomplicated diagrams and fingering charts
Limited material on each page to reduce overload
Easy-to-read instructions and clean page layouts
Fun, engaging format designed for young violinists
Large selection of classic and time-tested melodies for A and E strings
Skills Your Child Will Learn
Basic violin music reading on the A and E strings
Foundational rhythmic concepts and steady beat
Proper left-hand and bowing technique for beginners
Melody and simple harmony awareness
Playing together in group and ensemble settings
Core music theory fundamentals in context
Creativity, musical expression, and phrasing
Long-term music appreciation and listening skills
How to Use This Book
Teachers can use The Real Book for Beginning Violin Students (A and E Strings) as a primary note-reading method or as a reading supplement alongside any standard violin method. In private lessons, assign a few short pieces per week, starting with the letter-name section, then revisiting the same songs later without letters for reinforcement. In classrooms and group lessons, mix and match this edition with other Real Book instrument versions so different students can play together in simple ensembles. Parents can support home practice by having students say note names aloud, clap rhythms, and play short sections slowly before putting pieces together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this book only for very young children?
No. While it is designed with young eyes and beginners in mind, it works well for any new violin student of any age who needs clear, simple reading practice on the A and E strings.
Do students need previous violin experience?
Basic instrument setup and posture should be introduced by a teacher or parent, but no prior music reading skills are required. The book starts from the very first notes on A and E.
Can this be used with a school orchestra program?
Yes. The limited note range, clear notation, and familiar songs make it ideal for first-year string classes and ensemble work.
Does this book cover all the violin strings?
This edition focuses only on the A and E strings to keep things simple and build strong early reading skills. Additional materials can later add notes on the D and G strings.
Is the book compatible with other instruments?
Yes. Matching “Real Book” editions are available for various instruments, so teachers can combine parts for mixed-instrument beginner ensembles.
Learn More
For additional music tutorials and demonstrations, visit the official Music Fun Books YouTube Channel.
Where to get it
Available now on Amazon.