I need help on improving my instrument skills and studies...?

Question

First, I'll give you my story. I started playing Viola when I was about in fourth grade and my mom got me a tutor to help me learn how to play. So, I learned how to play. It was real easy at first, but then it slowly got harder and harder, however this is where I messed up. I NEVER practiced. After the 30 minute lessons for the week I'd tuck the Viola away until the next lesson or if I was going to play it in school. So the same thing carried on into Middle School and by then I totally sucked at playing Viola, I couldn't read notes unless they had the numbers and it was just awful(I was in the orchestra). But I still skimmed by, but barely. Usually pretending to have to play. But now I'm about to go to high school and I want to clean up my mistakes, start off new. I guess you can say I can play decently now since I kinda want to get good now, but I have the most trouble with the fingering, I'm always a couple notes off and having trouble trying to find the correct key.

I'd really like to get better at playing, can anyone suggest any methods? How many minutes should I practice everyday?

And one last question, what would I need to study to help me get into AP music theory in the future? Honestly I know little to NOTHING about music. I can barely read note keys and I have trouble getting the timing thing in the beginning of a measure. Please help, I really want to get better! I'd just like some help on how to before I maybe s***w up even more.

Answer 1

Go to the music store and look at book 1 Viola method. If you feel you could sit down and play everything in it, look at book 2.

Most likely from what you have said you need to start with book 1.  Read every word. play each line until you are sure you can play it with no errors. I always say play it 3 times with no errors, then go on.

Each time you practice, start with something you already can play and end with something you really like. It will be slow at first, but you sound like you are willing to do it right.

Keep your viola out. Keep your music out.

Practice often. I  suggest 2 or 3 times a day for 10 to 15 minutes. As you get better a bit more.

Enjoy your Viola.