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I played for a few years when I was a child, and started from literal "scratch" at 31. I was able to play at a professional level after about 10 years of hard work, and now, at the age of 54 my only limitations have to do with natural deterioration of things like tendons, so I have to be careful when I play the viola.

With a good teacher, a few hours a day of practice, and an attitude that includes giving yourself permission to fail, there is no reason that anyone with the desire, a decent instrument, and a good teacher shouldn't begin the violin (or viola, or cello) as an adult.

You'll never be a child prodigy (you'll also never be a child again), and you will probably not become a soloist (most people who start as kids don't become soloists), but you can have a fulfilling musical adulthood.

I teach multiple string instruments to all ages, but the one age I have focused on is 55 yrs. and over. I have 15 students ranging from 55 to 81. They don't expect to be virtuosos and really enjoy the time they spend learning their violins. They say it keeps their minds active. Most of them are interested in playing waltzes and some of the old time tunes. When one gets up age there are some physical limitations due to arthritis and such, and considering I suffer from osteoarthritis myself I am able to aid them in their quest. Most of them are in their 3rd year now and are having a blast.
I started at age 56. I am don't plan at professional level but for sure I am having a lot of fun
I started violin at age 59, although I had been playing other instruments for some time before that. Now, four years later, I'm fiddling my buns off at bluegrass jams, playing classical ensemble pieces with friends, and playing viola in a local orchestra. I'm having a great time, and I know that music will sustain me for the rest of my life.

I think it's cruel to tell people they're too old to play. A late beginner likely won't become a top soloist playing with the Berlin Philharmonic, but there's much more to music than that. I think everyone, regardless of age, should be encouraged to play music; it can enrich anyone's life.