Do I need a teacher to get started?
Nope, not at all! Here are another one of my secrets I'm almost entirely self-taught. I spent 3 years teaching myself before getting a teacher. Using video resources and books, I took my time learning how to hold the bow and the violin correctly. While I'm no master violinist, I can play well enough for my needs. The decision to start with a teacher is almost entirely up to your goals. I play as a hobby and a way to annoy my family members at Christmas. Still, those who have serious goals of joining elite Orchestras or want to be soloists will want a teacher from the start. Nothing can compare to the proper direction and feedback. If you do choose to learn on your own, take your time with posture and bow hold. Don't be scared to play using the tip and the frog of your bow, either.