AboutTodd Sullivan Expertise Hello, I am a NYC violinist performing for Broadway shows, symphony orchestras, opera, and sundry theatre/pop tours. I would be happy to answer your questions about anything related to being a performer in the music business. I play both violin and viola professionally, so questions on playing either instrument are welcome. The only thing I am not well informed on is information concerning instruments/bows...those questions are best left to luthiers.
Experience Professional experience includes a variety of on/off Broadway tours and shows, numerous orchestras, tours with Ray Charles and Ann Murray orchestras, leader of the 20-piece Todd Sullivan Orchestra.
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Fine Arts (violin) with honors from Carnegie Mellon University (1999)
Question Hello Mr Sullivan,
I am interested in playing the violin and from what I've heard from many violinists, is that no beginner should start on a electric violin. I've heard this argument will all instruments: guitar, piano ect. I was wondering what the reason is? The only reason that I am interested in an electric violin is because sound is an issue where I live. With an electric I can practice without disrupting the people around me.
Answer The reason is that a sound technique is required to produce a quality tone and execute proper bow strokes on a violin, but the way the tone is produced on an electric violin will give you a false sense of how your technique is working. It is much more difficult to achieve a quality tone on an acoustic instrument and this is your best indicator of how well or poorly your technical command is progressing.
