Master’s in Violin Performance • Teaching since 2004 • Online since 2014
If you’re interested in lessons or want to check availability, send a message and I’ll share current openings.
No long-term commitment required • I respond within 24 hours
What Your Lessons Are Like
Each lesson is designed to remove guesswork, so you always know exactly what to practice and how to improve between sessions.
We move step by step with clear instruction, so you’re never guessing what comes next.
Lessons are practical and goal-oriented, so you can build skills steadily from week to week.
What My Adult Students Say
“I am a violin student of Marnie Thies. I played violin for 3 years in middle school before restarting lessons 15 years later after graduating pharmacy school.
From our very first lesson, Marnie was patient and focused on my playing. When I wasn’t ready for a piece, she adjusted the lesson to meet me where I was, often working on fundamentals like scales instead.
At each lesson we build step by step on the previous week’s work. I have been working on vibrato and have seen steady improvement. Looking back at videos from a year ago, I am amazed at my progress.”
— A. McDonald (Google Review)
Long-Term Progress, Not Quick Fixes
Many of my adult students continue lessons for multiple years as they develop new skills, learn new music, and pursue new musical goals. Violin is a lifelong skill, and lessons are designed to support steady, long-term growth at every stage.
In-Person Lessons Near St. Paul
Lessons are offered at consistent weekly locations in the Twin Cities area:
Falcon Heights — Mondays (Near St. Paul)
North Oaks — Tuesdays
Mounds View — Thursdays
I teach in the afternoons and evenings.
Online Violin Lessons for Adults
Online violin lessons, since 2014, are available for adults who prefer learning from home or are outside the Twin Cities area. This option works well for busy schedules, travel limitations, or students who are not nearby. To see how I teach, view the Online Violin Lessons page.
Lesson structure
- Step-by-step instruction based on your current level
- Efficient practice methods that fit real schedules
- Technique adjusted for comfort and reduced tension
Practice & music
- Music chosen based on your interests and level
- Clear, realistic practice plans
- Optional duets for timing and musical connection
Comfort & Violin Fit
Many adult students have comfort needs related to hand size, flexibility, past tension or injury. A 7/8 or 3/4 violin sometimes fits more comfortably than a full size — I assess each student individually and bring smaller violins to lessons for students who want to try one.
Lessons include adjustments to posture, setup, and technique so you can develop a comfortable and sustainable approach to violin at any age.
FAQ
Is it too late to start violin as an adult?
No—it’s never too late to start violin.
I’ve worked with adult beginners across a wide range of ages, and we always focus on building skills step by step in a way that fits each person’s pace.
Is it normal to feel unsure starting violin as an adult?
Most adult beginners build confidence quickly when we focus on small, clear steps from the start. It’s normal to feel a little unsure at first, and we work through that gradually.
What if I feel nervous or uncoordinated at the beginning?
That’s very common for adult beginners. Lessons are paced step by step so coordination and confidence build gradually, without pressure to “get it right” immediately. I help with positioning of the fingers on the violin and bow as needed.
How soon will I be able to play real music?
Most adult beginners start playing simple recognizable pieces within the first few lessons. The exact pace depends on practice consistency, but lessons focus early on making real music rather than only exercises.
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How much should I practice to make progress?
20–30 minutes a day is a great starting point. I’ll help you build a routine that fits your schedule and leads to steady, realistic progress without long practice sessions.
Do I need an expensive violin?
Not at all. I’ll help you choose a good student instrument that fits your budget.
Can I learn styles like pop, folk, or jazz?
Yes. We build strong fundamentals while also working on the music you actually enjoy.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re unsure where to begin, that’s completely normal.
Take the first step with a free introductory session where you can ask questions, try a short mini lesson, and see what learning would actually feel like before committing.
If you’re considering adult violin lessons, feel free to reach out anytime to check availability and ask any questions you may have.