OOPS!

After reading Countess Richard's response I realized that I had made an UNWARRANTED ASSUMPTION.

My remarks apply only to traditional fiddling of the American southern mountains (aka "old time fiddling"). That is the only fiddling with which I have significant experience.

It's not just me. My remarks voice a common perception among old time musicians. My old time fiddling friends who began with classical training will be the first to admit that it took forever for them to overcome it.

OF COURSE a VIOLIN teacher will push classical training. It's their job. Might as well ask a tuba player about the best way to learn the banjo.