First Violin Songbook for Kids
The Real Book for Beginning Violin Students (G and D Strings)
What Is This Book?
The Real Book for Beginning Violin Students (G and D Strings) is a step-by-step songbook that helps new violinists learn to read music confidently on the G and D strings. Using only six notes and seventy familiar tunes, it gently builds note-reading, rhythm, and basic technique. The clear, uncluttered layout keeps young beginners focused and successful from the very first pages.
Who Is This Book For?
This book is ideal for young beginners in approximately grades 1–5, or any starting violinist learning their first notes on the G and D strings. It works well for school string programs, private lessons, homeschoolers, and self-motivated learners. Teachers can also combine it with other instrument editions for group classes, orchestra programs, and mixed-ensemble settings.
What Makes This Book Easy for Kids to Learn?
The book uses extra-large music notation so young eyes can easily see each note and rhythm. In the first half, letter names are printed inside the noteheads, giving beginners an immediate visual connection between staff position and note name. In the second half, the letter names disappear, gently transitioning students to real reading without shortcuts. Each page presents only a small amount of material, preventing overload and helping children master one concept at a time. Clear diagrams, charts, and simple instructions guide students through posture, hand position, and basic technique in a kid-friendly way.
What Music Does the Book Include?
The Real Book for Beginning Violin Students (G and D Strings) features a large selection of classic and time-tested songs that use only six notes on the G and D strings. Students play well-known folk tunes and popular melodies that are instantly recognizable and fun to practice. The diverse mix of pieces exposes children to different musical styles while staying at a true beginner level, allowing them to build a real repertoire from the start.
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 printed inside noteheads in the first half of the book
Same songs without letter names in the second half to build real reading
Simplified, beginner-friendly arrangements using only six notes
Clear, uncomplicated diagrams and charts
Limited material on each page for better focus and less overwhelm
Easy-to-read instructions and sheet music
Fun, engaging format designed for young learners
Large selection of classic and time-tested songs for early violinists
Coordinating editions available for other instruments for ensemble use
Skills Your Child Will Learn
Music reading on the staff
Basic rhythmic concepts and counting
Proper beginning violin technique on G and D strings
Understanding of melody and simple harmony
Playing with others in group or ensemble settings
Foundational music theory concepts
Creativity and musical expression
General music appreciation and enjoyment
How to Use This Book
Teachers can use this book as a primary reading method for the G and D strings in private lessons or group classes, introducing songs in order as students master each new note and rhythm. Classroom string programs can mix and match it with the matching editions for other instruments, creating simple ensemble arrangements that start from the very first weeks of study. Parents can follow the clear layouts at home to support practice, encouraging children to say note names, clap rhythms, and then play each song. Students can review the first half with letter names to gain confidence, then revisit the same songs in the second half without letters to reinforce true reading skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is this violin book best for?
It is designed for young beginners, typically ages 6–11, but it can be used with any new violin student learning the G and D strings.
Do students need any prior music experience?
No. The book starts from the very beginning and introduces note reading, rhythm, and basic technique in a gradual, friendly way.
Can this be used in school orchestra or group classes?
Yes. The clear layout and limited notes make it perfect for elementary string programs and beginning group ensembles, especially when combined with other instrument editions.
Does the book only use G and D strings?
Yes. All seventy songs are carefully written to use just six notes on the G and D strings, so beginners can focus on solid fundamentals without feeling overwhelmed.
Is this book suitable for self-taught students?
While a teacher is always helpful, the large notation, letter names, and clear instructions make the book accessible to motivated students and supportive parents at home.
Learn More
For additional music tutorials and demonstrations, visit the official Music Fun Books YouTube Channel.
Where to get it
Available now on Amazon.