Practice is such a strong word. A college professor of mine said the word "practice" often gets used incorrectly when dealing with music. He used to say that "play" is a much better term to use. However how should one go about practicing (or playing) their instrument? How often should one practice?? In my opinion how and when someone should practice their violin (or any instrument) depends on each student. Newer students should practice at shorter increments of time due to they don't have the strength to practice for a full 30 minutes at one time. It is better to practice/play for 15 minute intervals several times a week versus 30 minutes to 1 hour only a couple times a week. I personally advise that one starts by warming up on a scale and then maybe adding an interesting rhythm to the scale. Then one should practice their etudes and then work on their piece, orchestra music, etc. After one has practiced (or played) what was assigned to them, I recommend that to conclude a practice session the student should feel free to play something of their choice (such as broadway, pop, rock). After all playing violin should be fun. Playing violin shouldn't be all work. It should be a way to relax after a stressful day of school or work. Here are some other links of practicing sugestions: http://www.violinmp3.com/violin-practice.html http://www.theviolincase.com/Newsletter/Mar04.htm