eMedia My Violin - Learn at Home

Originally, I could not get this to install on my mac x10.7 but I was able to get it to run on my Win7 system. However, I recently found a solution that would allow me to install the latest version from the manufacturers website: [...] which did work and actually runs and looks better on the mac than on the PC. My only remaining problem is that since I have a macbook air, I need a CD rom drive for the software to access the video clips. So now Im having to look at buying an $80 superdrive to use the software but other mac users that have built in CD drives shouldnt have this problem. Another problem that has been resolved is the Val character is talking now rather than just sitting there blinking. Shes still a little slow to get started talking when you first begin a lesson but eventually she will read the words on the screen. I still think the games in this package will be very helpful to my daughter in learning to read music regardless of whether it is for violin or any other instrument. I have yet to work with my 5 year old with the software but am looking forward to being able to do this. At the moment I have high hopes that she will enjoy and get something out of this software. Suggestions to emedia on their next version would be to upgrade the graphics even further, add subtitles to the video because its difficult to understand the instructor who has a thick german accent, and perhaps do a little more with Val to help keep the kids interest levels up. On a side note, Amazon shipping was much faster than usual on this item. Id ordered it on a Saturday and it arrived the following Monday. Incredible delivery speed! Thanks Amazon.

I decided to try my hand at teaching myself violin. I read a lot of internet posts that stated that the violin was very difficult and nearly impossible to teach to yourself. This software makes all those posts absolutely false. The lessons are really easy to follow, the ability to watch a video showing how to play the lesson, than you can see exactly what stings to use and what finger placement. I have moved through the lessons and really feel myself getting better. I would highly recommend this software to anyone wanting to learn the violin. Dont be fooled by the age posted on the box. I am 25 and find this program teaches me in progressive way. One thing I would recommend to go with this is the bow right devise. It helps keep my bow on course and in the right zone. Not having an instuctor to help me means I need all the help I can get keeping the right posture and control. Just my thoughts.

Cool little program, but my daughter was half way through the lessons in about 20 mins. Tuner in program is inaccurate, some of the lessons are annoying and repetitive. I would save the $$ and just go on and spend it on lessons.