Performing Violin Without Purpose
One of the most frustrating things when listening to violinists (or any musician) is their inability to produce the right tone to match the musical intention. The violin is an incredibly versatile instrument, capable of an enormous range of expression, yet most players seem to default to the most unimaginative and generic sound.
Let’s be honest: the raw tone of a violin string isn’t inherently beautiful; it resembles the buzz of a mosquito. Its true beauty lies in the way a player controls and shapes the sound. The artistry comes from how they connect and disconnect each note, how they manipulate the push and pull of the bow. The sound should grab, hold, and release. It can punch or pulse, scream or whisper. Because of its highly dynamic nature, the violin can express a vast emotional spectrum. In the right hands, it becomes a faithful extension of the human voice.
But many violinists today don’t seem to know what kind of sound they want to produce. It’s like watching a play with an actor who delivers every line woodenly, without conviction or depth. What we often call “violinists” these days are more like socialites with violins—playing only familiar pop melodies to appeal to an audience that doesn’t listen, but merely recognizes. To them, music is not an exploration, but a confirmation of what they already know.
This isn’t doing music any favors. The role of the artist is not to pander, but to elevate; to challenge, inspire, and deepen the listener’s experience. Sadly, the ones most eager to claim the title of “artist” are often those without the intrinsic talent, intellect, or emotional insight to fulfill the role meaningfully.