How to get music in school?

I am 19. Do you think I could get into music school a couple years down the line?

• I am 19, always wanted to play violin but got taught piano instead when 8 years old. Quit when I was 12 because my dad forced me to practise and expected so much( at least one hour a day, and if i missed i was to play 5 hours the next day - i was so young even one hour everyday was too much -) So my point is i already know my basic theory and can read music. And I am aware the most/all professional and concert violinists etc have started when they wre very young, but do you think I could get into music school one day as a mature age student.. (in my late 20s, or 30s?) if I worked hard at learning the violin? It woudln't be my first degree so my aim would to be learn the violin in greater depth but not necessarily for professional reasons....( i also want to learn the music theory properly so i can write my own compositions - so it'd be purely for passions sake i guess) If anyone could give me a personal, or educated opinion it'd be really appreciated :)

• Answer:

  It might be possible. It's unlikely, but it might be possible. But violin is a very difficult instrument to master. It's harder than piano. You've got the bow, the fingering, the timing, the intonation - and it's the intonation and the bowing - the actual sound you're producing from the instrument that can be the killer. It'll take a lot of work on your part - but you really lose nothing by trying for this. At worst, you learn to play violin. At best, you do get into a conservatory. And even if you never go to conservatory, you can get good enough to play in your community orchestra, or in a trio, or just for yourself. It's worth it to try. So I'd have you start violin lessons immediately. Ideally, study with someone who has taught at, or is teaching at, a conservatory or respected music program based at a university, because you must get the technique right from the very start, or else you'll be doing yourself a disservice. You can study at most conservatories, even as a beginner, via their continuing education departments. Even Julliard offers private lessons via continuing education. Check the website for any local BFA-granting music schools in your region, as well as for any decent music programs located at universities; or call them directly. Ask if they offer private lessons for beginning adult students. Then sign up. See where it takes you.