Music-making is a wonderful activity. In order for you to have successful and satisfying progress in study, please keep the following in mind:
- Make practice a habit. It is best to practice when you are not tired. Never try to multi-task while practicing (no electronics).
- I recommend five practice sessions each week. It is best to practice slowly and accurately. Don’t rush. Take it slow. That way, you will be more prepared and confident at your lesson. Most students like to use a metronome while practicing.
- Practice everything in your notebook, whether it is easy or hard for you. Write notes in your notebook as reminders to help you to improve.
- Please bring all materials to lessons. That includes your violin, your shoulder rest, your music, a pencil, rosin, etc. Some students make a short checklist and keep it in their violin case.
- Parents are encouraged to help their child practice, as needed and as age-appropriate. For beginning students, parent involvement at home is essential. Please make it your responsibility to attend lessons, to listen and to reinforce suggestions with your child. This is especially important when it relates to violin and bow position.
- “Music theory” is a fancy way of referring to how we read and understand music. I make music theory fun and principally use the Master Theory Method, by Peters and Yoder – Master Theory Book 1.
The following are some tips for getting started:
- You will need to purchase materials such as a properly sized violin and bow. The bow should be preferably made of carbon fiber or wood and should have full, clean and relatively new hair. You will need rosin, a soft cloth, a shoulder rest, a pencil and eraser (!) and a small notebook. Music will be assigned after the first lesson depending on the student’s level. Beginners will need to purchase Suzuki Violin School: Violin Part, Volume 1.
- Sheet music, strings and supplies can be easily ordered online through Shar Music. They carry everything you will need, have fair prices, ship quickly and offer great telephone support staff (don’t be afraid to call me or them with questions). There are also a number of local music shops where you can purchase or rent instruments, purchase strings, supplies and music.