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This arpeggio study is the 2nd in a series of 4 new arpeggio FREEBIES, and the accompanying minor version to the 1st posted major version. I am confident that you will find something new in these resources to help you bring out the best in your music-making, whether you are a beginner or a veteran teacher. To celebrate this new series of FREEBIES, all of the M4YV arpeggio and scale sheet music collections will be 60% off from now thru the end of the month: One Octave Scale and Arpeggios for Violin One Octave Scale and Arpeggios for Viola 13 Bowing Patterns for Scales 7 Bowing Studies for Beginning Violin   
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Scroll down for a new, 2-page G Major arpeggio study, free PDF download. This will be the 1st in a series of 4 new arpeggio FREEBIES, and I am confident whether you are a beginner or a veteran teacher, you will find something new in these resources to help you bring out the best in your music-making. Arpeggios are beautiful just as they are, but even more rewarding is that we learn pieces faster when we devote practice time to our arpeggios. How? Because arpeggios are the "ingredients" that make music, think of arpeggios as the tomatoes and music as the spaghetti sauce. To celebrate this new series of FREEBIES, all of the M4YV arpeggio and scale sheet music collections will be 60% off from now thru the end of the month: One Octave Scale and Arpeggios for Violin One Octave Scale and Arpeggios for Viola 13 Bowing Patterns for Scales 7 Bowing Studies for Beginning Violin  
Happy February! Every year in this month, I celebrate Fiddle music. It started in my studio as a way to brighten up the dreary winters here in the Pacific Northwest and became a fun tradition. Enjoy this flash FREEBIE of Mississippi Reel for Violin and Viola in the key of D Major. I will take this down in one week from posting, so please help spread the good news and tell your fiddle friends to take advantage of this easy and free download. For more fiddle music from the M4YV project, click HERE.
Sorry, you missed out on this flash FREEBIE available for 1-week.
Please sign-up for the M4YV mailing list to be alerted to future flash FREEBIES. This fun fiddle tune is still available for instant download in the M4YV collection Let's Fiddle!!! Did you know there are 4 ways to do the "spider crawls" on the bow? Learn all 4 ways, neat tricks for teaching and learning these and get introduced to the ultimate challenge with a short tutorial video below.  Guest author Adrian Martinez helps tackle one of the most popular questions - how long does it take to learn how to play the violin?  How long does it take to learn the violin? We’re going to start by responding to this question with what is perhaps the most frustrating answer: it depends. First, it depends on what you mean by “learn.” Within a day, you might possibly be able to play a few notes - within a week, you might be able to play those notes in a way that kind-of-sort-of sounds like a song. You might then say you’ve “learned” the violin. On the other hand, if you’re asking how long it takes to master the violin, you might fall back on Malcolm Gladwell’s 10,000 hours, or you might be really impish and say that absolute mastery is impossible. After all, music is ever-growing and changing, and even micro-adjustments to technique can produce totally different sounding songs. We might then look at the extraordinary variety inherent in humankind. There are so many different students, each with different levels of experience. Someone who has played the guitar before might find it easier to develop a left-hand technique than a total novice. On the other hand, another guitarist might find the lack of frets daunting and disorienting, which could curb their progress.  How you’re learning can also be a pretty important factor. Whether or not you’ve got a personal instructor, if you’re taking online music lessons, if you have access to sheet music, or you’re just trying to guess for yourself. Other factors include:
Of course, you’re not here reading this blog post for the answer “it depends” - though elaborating on why it depends can help you narrow down what your goals and potential barriers might be. We’re going to make some assumptions, then. We’re going to assume you’ve never played an instrument before, you don’t know any music theory - that you’re basically a complete beginner. We’re also going to assume you practice for around 5-6 hours a week (an hour a day with a day or two off or 45 minutes every day) and that you have a teacher.  Month 1:The first month is all about the absolute basics. You’ll learn how to hold the violin and the bow (and yourself). You’ll also learn the basic anatomy of a violin. It’s unlikely that you’ll use the fingers on your left hand during the first month; instead, you’ll focus on your bow technique. You will do exercises like this & this (click on the links for some fun YouTube tutorial videos from M4YV). You’ll also begin to learn the basics of music theory - mainly how to read sheet music. Learning about music theory is an ongoing discipline. There’s an incredible depth, diversity, and richness to theory, especially once you start going outside of the Western canon, so there’s a lot to learn here.
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The original set of violin stickers have been so popular that we decided to build on this theme with an entire sticker sheet. Get this 4 x 6-inch sheet of 8 super cute violin and music-themed stickers free with any purchase.
UPDATE: ALL OF THE KEYCHAINS ARE GONE AS OF SUNDAY, 11/29/2020. THANK YOU!
Just for fun & free with purchase while supplies last!
I had a limited run of these custom keychains made at a creative online store called Sticker Mule and will mail them to any purchases made at the Music for Young Violinists Store while supplies last.
Hey, I also need a little fun in my life and want one of these violin player key chains. How will I know when they run out?
I will be sure to make an update on this blog post when the keychains are out. As always, feel free to email me with any questions.
Hey, I also need a little fun in my life and want one of these violin player key chains. How will I know when they run out?
I will be sure to make an update on this blog post when the keychains are out. As always, feel free to email me with any questions.
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PS - Thanks again Sticker Mule for your help making these for M4YV!
This picture is from my run to the post office this morning. As of 11/28/20, Saturday afternoon there are still a few left but they are going fast.
Are Too Many Toys Bad for Kids?
According to the article "Too Many Toys are Bad for Children," written in 2017 by Sarah Knapton, science editor of The Telegraph, the average child in Briton has 328 toys but only plays with 12 of them. This statistic reveals that kids use less than 4% of their toys and suggests that we are not wisely investing in our children.
Furthermore, research done at the University of Toledo confirms that too many toys for kids can damage their potential and lead to decreased focus and less imagination.
Furthermore, research done at the University of Toledo confirms that too many toys for kids can damage their potential and lead to decreased focus and less imagination.
I have many remarkable young people in my life and have given cheap disposable gifts. It's hard not to because I love gifting, and we live far away, so spending time together (especially in a pandemic) is difficult. However, when I really think about my values, this is not aligned with building focus, encouraging imagination, nurturing inherent gifts, and fostering meaningful relationships.
There are many ways we can invest in children to encourage higher levels of development and foster our values. When I was a toddler, one of my relatives purchased stock in his company for me. Twenty years later, when I was ready to play on a high-quality violin, this investment had continuously grown in value over the years and was waiting for me to be used on something that has now been used and appreciated almost daily for over two decades. Had my relative used that money on a toy, I would have no recollection of the toy today, no resources to purchase a fine instrument and pursue my violin performance degrees, and nothing to pass along to the next generation in my family.
As I search for a way to close the gap between my values and actions with the gifts I give to the children in my life, I wanted to share these thoughts to confirm what many of you already know - fewer toys are better for children. I hope this spurs a conversation on using our resources to best support the amazing young people in our lives.
Below is a short list of ways to do this:
There are many ways we can invest in children to encourage higher levels of development and foster our values. When I was a toddler, one of my relatives purchased stock in his company for me. Twenty years later, when I was ready to play on a high-quality violin, this investment had continuously grown in value over the years and was waiting for me to be used on something that has now been used and appreciated almost daily for over two decades. Had my relative used that money on a toy, I would have no recollection of the toy today, no resources to purchase a fine instrument and pursue my violin performance degrees, and nothing to pass along to the next generation in my family.
As I search for a way to close the gap between my values and actions with the gifts I give to the children in my life, I wanted to share these thoughts to confirm what many of you already know - fewer toys are better for children. I hope this spurs a conversation on using our resources to best support the amazing young people in our lives.
Below is a short list of ways to do this:
1- Tickets to live performances.
2- Pay for a month of their violin tuition, or sponsor a youth to attend a summer music institute.
3- Buy a new violin case (or music stand, shoulder rest, etc. There are some super creative rosins available for reasonable prices and will make great gifts).
4- Make a practicing counter (click HERE to learn more).
5- Purchase toys that can be used for generations (like wood blocks).
2- Pay for a month of their violin tuition, or sponsor a youth to attend a summer music institute.
3- Buy a new violin case (or music stand, shoulder rest, etc. There are some super creative rosins available for reasonable prices and will make great gifts).
4- Make a practicing counter (click HERE to learn more).
5- Purchase toys that can be used for generations (like wood blocks).
Free sample of the A Major bowing patterns and 50% off sale of the entire collection only available thru Sunday, November 8, 2020.
Students need repetition to master any skill.
The studies in 13 Bowing Patterns for Scales + Harmony are perfect for creating a structure for this success and will benefit the beginning-intermediate level violin player in the following ways:
The studies in 13 Bowing Patterns for Scales + Harmony are perfect for creating a structure for this success and will benefit the beginning-intermediate level violin player in the following ways:
- Designated worksheet pages help the teacher define the amount of repetition expected and necessary to gain fluency in their violin playing.
- Built-in repetition helps with mastering the finger patterns and shifts in the particular scale they study.
- The bowing patterns introduce and enforce popular bowings so that the student can excel in learning new and more advanced repertoire to progress with greater success and ease.
How to Use the Bowing Patterns:
1st - Do the bowing pattern in the air while singing the scale.
2nd- Play on the violin, mastering one pattern at a time. Do not go on to a new pattern until you are consistently successful with the previous pattern. Some students find it easier to start with the patterns on the second page.
3rd- March a quarter note beat while air bowing and singing the scale.
4th- Play on the violin while marching the quarter note beat.
1st - Do the bowing pattern in the air while singing the scale.
2nd- Play on the violin, mastering one pattern at a time. Do not go on to a new pattern until you are consistently successful with the previous pattern. Some students find it easier to start with the patterns on the second page.
3rd- March a quarter note beat while air bowing and singing the scale.
4th- Play on the violin while marching the quarter note beat.
Thank you to Robbie from www.GreatViolinCases.com for sharing his expertise on this guest blog post! Learn more about these cases by clicking on the links below.
Thanks to technology, violin cases have been getting more and more advanced over the past few years. That means they're becoming more protective, durable, lightweight, and temperature-resistant.
And the great thing is, you don't have to break the bank to get a decent case! Many reputable brands are on a mission to make protective cases more affordable for students.
Below is a list of the top 5 violin cases for students based on their unique features.
And the great thing is, you don't have to break the bank to get a decent case! Many reputable brands are on a mission to make protective cases more affordable for students.
Below is a list of the top 5 violin cases for students based on their unique features.
1 - Best Value:
Gewa Pure Violin Cases - starting at $220.
These German cases are as protective as many $600 cases out there! They're made of polycarbonate, which is also used to make shatterproof glass. Plus, the case is more scratch-resistant than many hardshell violin cases. This is a great case for students that plan on playing the violin for at least 4 years.
The neck cushion is adjustable so that it can fit ¾ and 4/4 violins. It's an affordable option for parents since you don't need to buy a new case when your child switches from a ¾ size to full-size violin.
These German cases are as protective as many $600 cases out there! They're made of polycarbonate, which is also used to make shatterproof glass. Plus, the case is more scratch-resistant than many hardshell violin cases. This is a great case for students that plan on playing the violin for at least 4 years.
The neck cushion is adjustable so that it can fit ¾ and 4/4 violins. It's an affordable option for parents since you don't need to buy a new case when your child switches from a ¾ size to full-size violin.
Gewa Pure violin case
2 - Best For Multi-Talented Students:
Jakob Winter Violin Cases - starting at $182.
Are you a student involved with lots of activities, and your violin goes along with you for all of these? Then you need a backpack case that is light and easy to transport.
The Jakob Winter violin cases weigh as little as 2.8 lbs. That's as light as it gets! And they all come with 2 backpack straps, so you have the choice of wearing it like a backpack or over one shoulder (while you carry your school backpack).
Are you a student involved with lots of activities, and your violin goes along with you for all of these? Then you need a backpack case that is light and easy to transport.
The Jakob Winter violin cases weigh as little as 2.8 lbs. That's as light as it gets! And they all come with 2 backpack straps, so you have the choice of wearing it like a backpack or over one shoulder (while you carry your school backpack).
Jakob Winter violin case
3 - Best For Showing Up To Every Lesson Organized:
Bobelock 1061 Fiberglass Violin Cases - starting at $260.
Are you a student that needs a case that can help you keep all your materials (music, shoulder pad, tuner, accessories) in one place?
Or else you'd forget them? Then check out the Bobelock 1061 fiberglass violin cases.
These cases have all the features you need to stay organized. They come with covers that have zippered sheet music compartments. There's a velcro strap under the neck of the violin for your shoulder rest. And the spacious accessories pouch is movable! So you can keep all your cleaning supplies, rosin, and accessories in one place and take it with you to your stand.
Are you a student that needs a case that can help you keep all your materials (music, shoulder pad, tuner, accessories) in one place?
Or else you'd forget them? Then check out the Bobelock 1061 fiberglass violin cases.
These cases have all the features you need to stay organized. They come with covers that have zippered sheet music compartments. There's a velcro strap under the neck of the violin for your shoulder rest. And the spacious accessories pouch is movable! So you can keep all your cleaning supplies, rosin, and accessories in one place and take it with you to your stand.
Bobelock 1061 fiberglass violin case
4 - Best For Your Personalized Style (And Why This Matters):
Tonareli Violin Cases - starting at $229.
According to developmental psychologist Eric Erickson, students aged 12-18 need to establish a sense of identity before successfully moving into adulthood. This is also the age most students quit. Having a case that reflects their developing sense of self can help anchor their identity as a musician and support them in playing the violin.
The Tonareli violin cases have the most colors and styles of any brand! They're also the ones who pioneered the cute "cello-shaped" violin cases. Plus, you can easily put on any stickers you like to these cases' smooth fiberglass surface.
According to developmental psychologist Eric Erickson, students aged 12-18 need to establish a sense of identity before successfully moving into adulthood. This is also the age most students quit. Having a case that reflects their developing sense of self can help anchor their identity as a musician and support them in playing the violin.
The Tonareli violin cases have the most colors and styles of any brand! They're also the ones who pioneered the cute "cello-shaped" violin cases. Plus, you can easily put on any stickers you like to these cases' smooth fiberglass surface.
Tonareli violin cases
5 - Best For Electric Violins:
Gewa Bio Violin Cases - starting at $144.
Electric violins have been growing in popularity in recent years, especially among students. That's because they're great with technology! Nowadays, any kid with an iPhone can plug in his electric violin, make music on Garageband, share it on Instagram immediately with all his friends and followers, and probably make a music video at the same time… all on his iPhone.
Electric violins give students a way of "plugging" their instruments into the digital world. And they need a good case to make sure their electric violin is well protected. The Gewa Bio case is a great case for electric violins because the interior is wide. Allowing it to accommodate electric violins of various widths and designs.
Electric violins have been growing in popularity in recent years, especially among students. That's because they're great with technology! Nowadays, any kid with an iPhone can plug in his electric violin, make music on Garageband, share it on Instagram immediately with all his friends and followers, and probably make a music video at the same time… all on his iPhone.
Electric violins give students a way of "plugging" their instruments into the digital world. And they need a good case to make sure their electric violin is well protected. The Gewa Bio case is a great case for electric violins because the interior is wide. Allowing it to accommodate electric violins of various widths and designs.
Gewa Bio violin case
+ BONUS - The Most Durable Cases:
Bam Hightech Violin Cases - starting at $568.
Have you already invested in an expensive instrument and need a case to keep it safe? The Bam Hightech is the most durable case and will protect your asset for a lifetime. Some students have already purchased their life long instruments and are ready to invest in a case worthy of their beloved instruments.
The Bam Hightech cases are incredibly durable. They're stronger than carbon fiber cases, but they do not absorb heat like carbon fiber cases do. They're definitely not the cheapest cases. But if you're serious about protecting your violin, you'll want a Bam Hightech case.
Have you already invested in an expensive instrument and need a case to keep it safe? The Bam Hightech is the most durable case and will protect your asset for a lifetime. Some students have already purchased their life long instruments and are ready to invest in a case worthy of their beloved instruments.
The Bam Hightech cases are incredibly durable. They're stronger than carbon fiber cases, but they do not absorb heat like carbon fiber cases do. They're definitely not the cheapest cases. But if you're serious about protecting your violin, you'll want a Bam Hightech case.
Bam Hightech violin case
Enjoy another flash FREEBIE of one of the best fiddle tunes ever:
The Road to Lisdooonvarna.
Scroll down and click on the file button to access a PDF file of this sheet music free for the next 48 hours.
The Road to Lisdooonvarna.
Scroll down and click on the file button to access a PDF file of this sheet music free for the next 48 hours.
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For duet & trio arrangements of this tune check out the Fiddle Duets collection available in the Music for Young Violinists online store.
Have a suggestion for what you would like to see in the next flash FREEBIE offering?
Let me know in the comments below.
Thanks!
Need something fun & modern with harmonics & double-stops?
Keep scrolling to download The Willamette, a modern fiddle duet, available as a free download for the next 48 hours.
Keep scrolling to download The Willamette, a modern fiddle duet, available as a free download for the next 48 hours.
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You may recognize this sheet music as the artwork in the Music for Young Violinists newsletter headers.
Players love this piece because it is so catchy.
Teachers love this piece because of all the technique hiding inside.
Everything in the Music for Young Violinists store is still 50% off as a part of the annual back to school sale. Sale ends September 26.
Happy Music Making!
Players love this piece because it is so catchy.
Teachers love this piece because of all the technique hiding inside.
Everything in the Music for Young Violinists store is still 50% off as a part of the annual back to school sale. Sale ends September 26.
Happy Music Making!
The M4YV FREEBIES page has been getting organized and is growing!
If you have not recently visited this page of 130+ free downloads, you may enjoy some recent additions, including:
If you have not recently visited this page of 130+ free downloads, you may enjoy some recent additions, including:
Rainbow Scales for Violin & Viola -
Use these LARGE sized musical staff charts with students to help learn note names and use them as a reference and color in the half notes for fun. Many of us are looking for distance ways of connecting with our students right now, and these free charts are perfect for beginners to study the musical staff. Get creative with how you use these and please send me a picture of your ideas at heatherfigi@musicforyoungviolinists.com.
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Samples from the Double-Stop Études (Violin & Viola)
The most recent additions to the Music for Young Violinists project include Double-Stop Études for violin and viola titled: 5 Progressive Double-Stop Études for Violin and Viola, composed by Heather Figi. Several resources from these collections made their way to the FREEBIES page, including:
1- Interval Charts (in color and black and white) - This is another fantastic activity to email to your students for distance learning. The black and white version is unlabeled so students can study the intervals and write in what interval is represented by themselves.
2- New Spring for 2 Violins - This duet contains double-stops and is also transcribed for solo instruments.
3- Preparatory Exercises the 5 Progressive Double Stop Études (Alto Clef) - Each 4-8 measure section correlates to a longer étude. Some students will be able to learn all 5 in a week, and other students will need more time to learn the 5 preparatory exercises. Do not move on to the full études until these five preparatory exercises are mastered.
1- Interval Charts (in color and black and white) - This is another fantastic activity to email to your students for distance learning. The black and white version is unlabeled so students can study the intervals and write in what interval is represented by themselves.
2- New Spring for 2 Violins - This duet contains double-stops and is also transcribed for solo instruments.
3- Preparatory Exercises the 5 Progressive Double Stop Études (Alto Clef) - Each 4-8 measure section correlates to a longer étude. Some students will be able to learn all 5 in a week, and other students will need more time to learn the 5 preparatory exercises. Do not move on to the full études until these five preparatory exercises are mastered.
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Download 2, PDF printable charts on the FREEBIES page (click here) to learn music theory intervals. The rainbow-colored interval chart lists the names of the intervals and makes a great studio poster. The black and white chart is unlabeled and perfect for printing out for students to have them write in the names of the intervals.
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These two charts are also included in the 5 Progressive Double-Stop Études for Violin, composed by Heather Figi, available here at the Music for Young Violinists store as an instant download.
Click HERE to learn more about this resource.
Click HERE to learn more about this resource.
In the arena of heated conversations among string teachers, the subject of finger #s (i.e., 1, 2, 3) versus pitches (B, C#, D) is a hot topic. I was surprised to read the comments on the blog post Best Way to Learn Violin Notes? and did not expect the consistency of responses. My favorite part was learning how the different countries approach this.
Click HERE to read what others are saying about finger #'s vs. pitches.
Click HERE to read what others are saying about finger #'s vs. pitches.
The pros of using finger numbers are that they are simple and clear. They also can segue nicely into using finger patterns. I am a proponent of teaching finger patterns even if using pitches over finger #s is the preference since they help train the whole and half steps while strengthening the mind-body circuitry. Since the finger patterns correlate nicely with the tapes on the violin fingerboard, it is easy to integrate them into the curriculum, especially at a beginning level.
Another pro of using #'s is to benefit students with special learning needs. These students (i.e., dyslexic, or right-brain dominant learners), have minds that best connect with a # over a letter.
Another pro of using #'s is to benefit students with special learning needs. These students (i.e., dyslexic, or right-brain dominant learners), have minds that best connect with a # over a letter.
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The pros of using the letter name of the note segue into a broader understanding of key signatures. This leads to understanding music theory, and ultimately teaches the universal language of music.
I spent most of my teaching career using finger #s and have to wonder:
I spent most of my teaching career using finger #s and have to wonder:
Was my reluctance to embrace using pitch names a reflection of my struggles with music theory?
I digress but bring this up since many of us had either very limited or unsuccessful music theory training. It was not until I was age 25 and did teacher training and teaching using the Music Mind Games music theory curriculum that I began to understand music theory.
I recently discovered the Fantastic Finger Guides. I think they are fantastic- they offer a quick and economical solution to accurate finger placement and immediately help to code the language of music theory into the beginning level violinist.
In 8 seconds, I applied the Fantastic Finger Guide. It went on smoothly and would be doable for students to apply independently.
Now, a clear map of pitches appears on my fingerboard as well as easy to see finger numbers identified on the side of the neck (perfect to see from "rest position"). The product comes on a beginning version (with less information as not to overwhelm the beginning student) and an advanced version that includes more pitches and a quick visual guide for how sharps and flats work.
Receive 10% off the Fantastic Finger Guides thru July 31, 2020 with coupon code MFYV2020.
Click HERE to learn more and order the Fantastic Finger Guides.
Click HERE to learn more and order the Fantastic Finger Guides.
Giveaway Contest - Win the Fantastic Finger Guides!!!
Entering is easy, scroll down to learn how.
Entering is easy, scroll down to learn how.
After almost a decade of teaching, Toby Weston, educator & creator of the Fantastic Finger Guides asked himself:
Why do we use finger tapes when first learning to play string instruments such as the violin, viola, or cello?
Is there a better way than finger tapes to get our beginners playing correctly with musical confidence?
Learn more about why using pitches instead of finger numbers is empowering to the learning process below by guest blog post author Toby Weston.
Why do we use finger tapes when first learning to play string instruments such as the violin, viola, or cello?
Is there a better way than finger tapes to get our beginners playing correctly with musical confidence?
Learn more about why using pitches instead of finger numbers is empowering to the learning process below by guest blog post author Toby Weston.
I have learned from teaching middle school music for the past 12 years that the best way to improve student learning is to improve the teaching system.
I wondered if there was a better way to teach than with finger tapes because finger tapes don't provide sufficient musical information to help the student grow musically smarter and they are a very abstract teaching tool.
I was concerned that by using finger tapes, my students were labeling the sound only by its physical location and not coding the actual musical language. At one point I used different color tapes for different locations:
1st finger was red, 2nd finger was white, and the 3rd finger was blue.
After a year of playing, most students using this system will code the location as 1st finger on the red tape on the A string, but not code the letter name nor musical language. By the time these students reached the 7th grade, many had deficiencies in understanding their fingerboard in terms of a musical alphabet.
After years of using finger tapes I had a breakthrough in the Fall of 2017:
I wondered if there was a better way to teach than with finger tapes because finger tapes don't provide sufficient musical information to help the student grow musically smarter and they are a very abstract teaching tool.
I was concerned that by using finger tapes, my students were labeling the sound only by its physical location and not coding the actual musical language. At one point I used different color tapes for different locations:
1st finger was red, 2nd finger was white, and the 3rd finger was blue.
After a year of playing, most students using this system will code the location as 1st finger on the red tape on the A string, but not code the letter name nor musical language. By the time these students reached the 7th grade, many had deficiencies in understanding their fingerboard in terms of a musical alphabet.
After years of using finger tapes I had a breakthrough in the Fall of 2017:
Why don't we just put the letter names on the instrument?
This way the student has the information needed to move forward in the music. When a student practices on their own they build correct muscle memory for spacing and also musical alphabet memory. This leads to gaining confidence in their playing without their teacher present. The student can code the music alphabet as their primary thinking versus finger tapes that are too abstract and don't provide any musical information.
I ended up creating the Fantastic Finger Guides to solve this problem for my students. I created the D Major Beginner Guide for my first-year students and the All Notes guide for my second-year students. When students are beginning to learn the violin, less is better thus the rationale for a more simplified finger guide.
Receive 10% off the Fantastic Finger Guides thru July 31, 2020 with coupon code MFYV2020.
Click HERE to order the Fantastic Finger Guides.
Click HERE to order the Fantastic Finger Guides.
How To Enter the Fantastic Finger Guide Giveaway Contest:
- Comment below
- State if you are a "STUDENT" or "TEACHER"
- Write in your learning preference: NUMBERS (for finger #s) or LETTERS (for pitches).
- i..e. STUDENT & Numbers or TEACHER & Letters
Through Limitation Comes Innovation
At the end of February 2020, I hired someone to help me with my website and they suggested using Zoom as a way to discuss plans.
I had never even heard of this thing called Zoom.
Fast-forward to June 2020 and I now use Zoom 7x a week to take classes, teach violin and capoeira, and attend meetings. Scroll down to learn the top 5 benefits & 3 downsides of Zoom violin lessons.
I had never even heard of this thing called Zoom.
Fast-forward to June 2020 and I now use Zoom 7x a week to take classes, teach violin and capoeira, and attend meetings. Scroll down to learn the top 5 benefits & 3 downsides of Zoom violin lessons.
Like all of you, I have experienced many changes in the trajectory of my teaching due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I always prefer meeting face-to-face with my students, but, acknowledge that there have been many benefits that have come from this period and using Zoom (or other online video communications) to keep music lessons active.
1- Gaining fluency and skills with new options for teaching and learning.
My first Zoom violin lesson was a bit of a disaster. I was late for my student due to not understanding how to properly share and access the link, I did not know how to use the features so there was no audio for the first 5 minutes and the camera angles and lighting were, well... let us just say that this too had room for improvement. It was distracting and clunky for both me and my student.
I know now how to set-up a recurring session, place the camera, adjust the lights, and easily adjust the audio and camera in a matter of seconds.
I learned a new skill and this will open future options for connecting and has expanded my concept for how I can teach. The options are endless and I now know that if a student or myself ever has a situation where we can not meet in person we can continue our work and fulfill our vision.
I know now how to set-up a recurring session, place the camera, adjust the lights, and easily adjust the audio and camera in a matter of seconds.
I learned a new skill and this will open future options for connecting and has expanded my concept for how I can teach. The options are endless and I now know that if a student or myself ever has a situation where we can not meet in person we can continue our work and fulfill our vision.
2- Insight into a student's environment.
Does your student hold their violin too far down?
Did you see on the Zoom lesson that their music stand is not properly elevated to facilitate proper posture?
Does your student suffer from distractions?
Can you recommend a more ideal place in their home for learning based on what you observe in their environment?
Did you discover that they have a piano you never knew about and now you can integrate this into their curriculum?
The piano keyboard is the best way to solidify music theory concepts, how exciting!
We must remember that we only see our students for 30-60 minutes every week and the rest of their learning takes place in their home. Gaining insight into the student's home learning environment can solve mysteries (such as the posture circumstance listed above) and help you make suggestions to better a student's core learning environment.
Did you see on the Zoom lesson that their music stand is not properly elevated to facilitate proper posture?
Does your student suffer from distractions?
Can you recommend a more ideal place in their home for learning based on what you observe in their environment?
Did you discover that they have a piano you never knew about and now you can integrate this into their curriculum?
The piano keyboard is the best way to solidify music theory concepts, how exciting!
We must remember that we only see our students for 30-60 minutes every week and the rest of their learning takes place in their home. Gaining insight into the student's home learning environment can solve mysteries (such as the posture circumstance listed above) and help you make suggestions to better a student's core learning environment.
3- Creativity: Through limitation comes innovation.
I work with an older brother and younger sister. The older brother was starting to refine his vibrato and the younger sister was just beginning to learn vibrato. To be honest, this has been very difficult for me to concentrate on through a screen and make any real progress in a positive direction. However, what the screen is fantastic for are all of the visual components of violin playing:
I have always said that the reason it is so easy for me to teach the violin is that I get to see everything so clearly. Video lessons helped to spotlight this factor and I made use of this in my curriculum. This also correlates with the 4th benefit of Zoom lessons listed next.
- Posture
- Bow Angles
- Bow placement
- Use of bow
- Finger placement
I have always said that the reason it is so easy for me to teach the violin is that I get to see everything so clearly. Video lessons helped to spotlight this factor and I made use of this in my curriculum. This also correlates with the 4th benefit of Zoom lessons listed next.
4- Instant Videos: Zoom has built-in video features.
My students video record their Zoom lessons and then review the video to understand their assignments and in the process, observe their performance.
Viewing oneself play the violin is one of the best ways to improve. Students should be doing this regularly but as teachers, we get busy and do not always uphold this expectation. Also, this convenience relieves the student (or parent of the student) from taking notes during the lesson.
Viewing oneself play the violin is one of the best ways to improve. Students should be doing this regularly but as teachers, we get busy and do not always uphold this expectation. Also, this convenience relieves the student (or parent of the student) from taking notes during the lesson.
5- Prioritizing health in our modern society.
Foremost, the use of Zoom lessons helps us prevent spreading the COVID-19 virus. There remains much to learn about this virus and it appears one can transmit without having symptoms. If this is accurate, then we have a responsibility as instructors to continue being prudent in our actions so we do not pass this along to our students, many of whom are children and may not have developed a robust immune system yet.
Secondly, without spending so much time driving and in activities, most of us (teachers and students) are receiving a well-needed rest. Our bodies need this extra time to repair and stay healthy.
I hope that we are all cognizant that health is one of our highest values and this experience will forge in us a commitment to take better care of ourselves in the years to come. Connecting with this value is a blessing that will serve us thruout the rest of our lives and something to be grateful for.
Secondly, without spending so much time driving and in activities, most of us (teachers and students) are receiving a well-needed rest. Our bodies need this extra time to repair and stay healthy.
I hope that we are all cognizant that health is one of our highest values and this experience will forge in us a commitment to take better care of ourselves in the years to come. Connecting with this value is a blessing that will serve us thruout the rest of our lives and something to be grateful for.
While it can be healthy to seek the positive in any situation, the 5 benefits of Zoom violin listed above do not paint the full picture of Zoom lessons. Below are listed some of the downsides of using this way of teaching.
1- Compromised Tone -
Shinichi Suzuki said, "tone is the living soul."
The limitations of the microphones and speakers in the computers we use to do Zoom lessons remove this life-infused quality of beautiful violin tone and frankly put, it's painful to listen to at times. On a basic computer, everything above a certain range or volume entirely cuts out and all violin sounds are compressed. Having a microphone or specialized headphones can help but nothing will ever compare to the beauty of live violin tone.
The limitations of the microphones and speakers in the computers we use to do Zoom lessons remove this life-infused quality of beautiful violin tone and frankly put, it's painful to listen to at times. On a basic computer, everything above a certain range or volume entirely cuts out and all violin sounds are compressed. Having a microphone or specialized headphones can help but nothing will ever compare to the beauty of live violin tone.
2- Environmental Diversions -
It's distracting being in my dining room teaching because our homes have so many triggers, the learning environment does not lend itself to dedicated focus like a teaching studio does.
3- Increased Screen Time -
We already are on our screens too much and now Zoom lessons add to this burden. According to the Mayo Clinic, the average time we spend on screens is 7-10 hours a day. This is in sharp contrast to the recommendations of acceptable screen time:
We love the violin because it's slow and it connects us to a time period where things were slow. The instant gratification offered by my screens dulls our dopamine receptors and may affect the way mitochondria operate within cells. Educate yourself further about the negative impacts of too much screen time here.
- No screen time whatsoever for children under 2
- One hour a day for children 2 to 12
- Two hours a day for teens and adults
We love the violin because it's slow and it connects us to a time period where things were slow. The instant gratification offered by my screens dulls our dopamine receptors and may affect the way mitochondria operate within cells. Educate yourself further about the negative impacts of too much screen time here.
What have you learned from using video communications for the violin?
Please share in the comments below. Thank you!
Please share in the comments below. Thank you!
If you are ready to grow your studio and deepen your impact in your community then I would like to introduce to you Bree Lewis.
As the wife of a military husband that requires frequent moves, Bree has had incredible success quickly building teaching studios in many parts of the country. She built her studio in Hawaii to over 70 students and recently filled her teaching studio in California in just two weeks. Through her direct experience and belief in the power of music education, Bree created this handbook to share with other music teachers how to streamline the process of building a studio and offer successful strategies for the unique challenges of owning and running a music studio.
I consider this such an incredible feat since it took me years to fill my studio when I moved to Oregon. I know of no other teacher having this amount of consistent success building new studios so frequently and feel very grateful that Bree took the effort to collect her studio building strategies into a handbook titled:
I consider this such an incredible feat since it took me years to fill my studio when I moved to Oregon. I know of no other teacher having this amount of consistent success building new studios so frequently and feel very grateful that Bree took the effort to collect her studio building strategies into a handbook titled:
This downloadable book does exactly what the title says. I was surprised at how available some of the strategies she uses are and think you will also find many solutions for how to grow your studio this school year.
Who is The Handbook of Marketing Strategies for Music Teachers for?
THE NEW & YOUNG TEACHER: You have played the violin for 20 years and are so passionate about the power a music education holds to positively change young lives that you enroll in teacher training and are bursting with enthusiasm to offer the world your teaching gifts. Now what? This book will give you a step by step guide to help you make your dreams come true of beginning your own violin studio and having immediate successes without having to learn things the hard way. I wish I had something like this when I was first starting out.
A PROGRAM DIRECTOR: I spent several years directing an established Suzuki Violin program at a prestigious music school in Washington DC and two summers directing a summer institute. In both circumstances, I remember that I always felt like I was re-inventing the wheel when I was asked to think of development and recruitment ideas. Bree’s handbook takes the guesswork out of growing a program and offers a clear strategy for where and how to look for new and ideal students.
THE FULL STUDIO TEACHER: This book is for teachers like myself who are already full. I turn away families on a regular basis but I know from experience that I always need to stay one step ahead and be ready for sudden changes in the economy or other unforeseen events.
THE TEACHER WHO WANTS MORE ONLINE PRESENCE: If you feel overwhelmed or daunted about developing your online presence fear no more. Bree’s book walks you thru all of the resources that are available to music teachers to support our unique line of work. As the title states, she shares with the reader free and low-cost strategies so there is no need to worry about large financial investments with her suggestions.
A PROGRAM DIRECTOR: I spent several years directing an established Suzuki Violin program at a prestigious music school in Washington DC and two summers directing a summer institute. In both circumstances, I remember that I always felt like I was re-inventing the wheel when I was asked to think of development and recruitment ideas. Bree’s handbook takes the guesswork out of growing a program and offers a clear strategy for where and how to look for new and ideal students.
THE FULL STUDIO TEACHER: This book is for teachers like myself who are already full. I turn away families on a regular basis but I know from experience that I always need to stay one step ahead and be ready for sudden changes in the economy or other unforeseen events.
THE TEACHER WHO WANTS MORE ONLINE PRESENCE: If you feel overwhelmed or daunted about developing your online presence fear no more. Bree’s book walks you thru all of the resources that are available to music teachers to support our unique line of work. As the title states, she shares with the reader free and low-cost strategies so there is no need to worry about large financial investments with her suggestions.
In conclusion, I have a sincere desire to see my colleagues thrive as professionals who are contributing to vibrant and educated communities. Too often we as music teachers do not receive the same advanced training in running a small business as we do in the art of playing the violin.
Since I am passionate about your success, I have also created a resource in an attempt to help close this gap. In my handbook titled 7 Steps to Attract More Students & Grow Your Violin (What I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Studio 10 Years Ago), I share with you everything I learned the hard way when building a studio so that you can have a more streamlined experience offering your talents to the world. Please click on the image below to learn more.
Since I am passionate about your success, I have also created a resource in an attempt to help close this gap. In my handbook titled 7 Steps to Attract More Students & Grow Your Violin (What I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Studio 10 Years Ago), I share with you everything I learned the hard way when building a studio so that you can have a more streamlined experience offering your talents to the world. Please click on the image below to learn more.
The content in 7 Steps to Attract More Students & Grow Your Violin (What I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Studio 10 Years Ago) is also available in an accompanying YouTube video playlist.
Do you have an idea to help other teachers attract more students?
Please leave it in the comments below, thanks!
Please leave it in the comments below, thanks!
Learn How To Do Vibrato On The Violin With a New & Ergonomic Approach To Teaching Violinists Vibrato Using "Cello Position"
As a teacher, the hardest thing for me to dissect for my students was vibrato (raise your hand if you can relate). After 15 years of teaching, I finally figured out an ergonomic and effective protocol to unlock the mystery of learning vibrato on the violin. The keys to establishing proper vibrato technique lie in understanding what makes it hard in the first place:
Once we take out these 2 elements, vibrato is clear to understand and easy to learn.
Watch the video below for a demonstration, a teaching sequence for younger players and tips for practicing.
- The asymmetrical placement of the violin.
- Going against gravity by "holding the violin up."
Once we take out these 2 elements, vibrato is clear to understand and easy to learn.
Watch the video below for a demonstration, a teaching sequence for younger players and tips for practicing.
This how-to learn vibrato on the violin video is for:
- Teachers who want "more tools in their toolbox" to help students learn vibrato.
- Students just learning vibrato and/or remediating their vibrato.
- Performers who need to loosen their approach to vibrato.
Please visit the FREEBIES page for more resources to support left-hand technique:
Do you have a tip to help learn vibrato?
We would love to learn from you, please share in the comments below.
We would love to learn from you, please share in the comments below.
How can I help you?
What is on your musical wish list?
What would make you excited to open your violin case, rosin your bow, and play music?
What is on your musical wish list?
What would make you excited to open your violin case, rosin your bow, and play music?
I have some extra time in my life and nothing makes me happier than making music. Your ideas are fuel for future resources. When the One Octave Scales and Arpeggios for Violin was announced, many of you emailed asking for an alto clef version of it. In about a week, this new resource was created and now musicians from the USA, Canada, Australia, Netherlands, and for the first time, Portugal have this new sheet music.
That's pretty darn exciting!
That's pretty darn exciting!
Please share your feedback for what you would like to see offered next in the comments below.
If I choose your suggestion, I will gift you a free copy of the new resource.
If I choose your suggestion, I will gift you a free copy of the new resource.
Should students be able to play better than their teachers?
This is a lofty goal, but a fun challenge that propels me forward and is the impetus of the newest resource from Music for Young Violinists:
One Octave Scales and Arpeggios
This is a lofty goal, but a fun challenge that propels me forward and is the impetus of the newest resource from Music for Young Violinists:
One Octave Scales and Arpeggios
It all started when I was 13 years old & my teacher said to me "if I am doing my job right, you should be able to play better than I did at your age." I was stunned because it never occurs to you to advance higher than your teacher.
Years later when I started teaching, I took this concept to heart and was determined to advance my students in a more streamlined way than I learned. I view this as a part of the continuum of humanity. As we discover how the brain works and how myelin is developed, then theoretically, we should be able to produce better students than ourselves.
That is why I created the One Octave Scales and Arpeggios resource for beginning-intermediate level students.
I found my students learning Bach & Vivaldi concertos (Suzuki Book 4 level) and ready for a full, 3-octave scale system to add to their curriculum. However, in my experience even if a student was learning repertoire at this level, their ear had not yet been trained to hear the arpeggio progression so they would struggle with both the learning of correct notes and the advanced shifting required in the upper octaves.
There had to be a better way to teach this and this is what led to the creation of the One Octave Scale and Arpeggios resource. This resource helps build a solid foundation by concentrating on the first octave of the arpeggio progressions so the student can master the aural template and basic finger patterns before embarking on more advanced octave/shifting work.
Years later when I started teaching, I took this concept to heart and was determined to advance my students in a more streamlined way than I learned. I view this as a part of the continuum of humanity. As we discover how the brain works and how myelin is developed, then theoretically, we should be able to produce better students than ourselves.
That is why I created the One Octave Scales and Arpeggios resource for beginning-intermediate level students.
I found my students learning Bach & Vivaldi concertos (Suzuki Book 4 level) and ready for a full, 3-octave scale system to add to their curriculum. However, in my experience even if a student was learning repertoire at this level, their ear had not yet been trained to hear the arpeggio progression so they would struggle with both the learning of correct notes and the advanced shifting required in the upper octaves.
There had to be a better way to teach this and this is what led to the creation of the One Octave Scale and Arpeggios resource. This resource helps build a solid foundation by concentrating on the first octave of the arpeggio progressions so the student can master the aural template and basic finger patterns before embarking on more advanced octave/shifting work.
One Octave Scales and Arpeggios for Violin is a 31 page eBook designed to give beginning-intermediate level violin players a solid foundation in both scales and arpeggios. Features include:
- Large size font to help make details more understandable
- 12 major keys signatures
- Simplified version (major & minor scales + arpeggios)
- Advanced version (scale + arpeggio progression)
- Coloring sheet
A peak behind the scenes of the latest M4YV collection:
With so many resources on the world wide web, it's hard to know where to start. Below is a list of my 5 favorite free violin sheet music websites (+ a bonus).
1- Violin Sheet Music:
Why I Like? This website has it all (and lots of it). Peruse the wide variety of classical, celtic, children's and more. Also, many downloads have both the violin and piano part.
2 - Violin Online:
Why I Like? They have simplified versions of Vivaldi's Four Seasons for 2 violins. Start playing Vivaldi's Spring today in the key of D major and work up to playing in E major (see #3 for accessing this).
3 - Mutopia:
Why I Like? The Mutopia Project touts 2,124 pieces of music that are "free to download, modify, print, copy, distribute, perform, and record – all in the Public Domain or under Creative Commons licenses, in PDF, MIDI, and editable LilyPond file formats" I started using this site because it has all 4 of Vivaldi's Four Seasons (both parts and scores).
4- The Violin Case:
Why I Like? One and two octave major and minor scale sheets that are easy to read and include broken thirds.
5- Capotasto Music:
Why I Like? A neat variety of sheet music that is professionally formatted in an easy to read size and with violin specific key signatures. I bring this up since many free sheet music sites do not have quality formatting or offer pieces with 5 flats in the key signature which is less than ideal for string players.
Why I Like? This website has it all (and lots of it). Peruse the wide variety of classical, celtic, children's and more. Also, many downloads have both the violin and piano part.
2 - Violin Online:
Why I Like? They have simplified versions of Vivaldi's Four Seasons for 2 violins. Start playing Vivaldi's Spring today in the key of D major and work up to playing in E major (see #3 for accessing this).
3 - Mutopia:
Why I Like? The Mutopia Project touts 2,124 pieces of music that are "free to download, modify, print, copy, distribute, perform, and record – all in the Public Domain or under Creative Commons licenses, in PDF, MIDI, and editable LilyPond file formats" I started using this site because it has all 4 of Vivaldi's Four Seasons (both parts and scores).
4- The Violin Case:
Why I Like? One and two octave major and minor scale sheets that are easy to read and include broken thirds.
5- Capotasto Music:
Why I Like? A neat variety of sheet music that is professionally formatted in an easy to read size and with violin specific key signatures. I bring this up since many free sheet music sites do not have quality formatting or offer pieces with 5 flats in the key signature which is less than ideal for string players.
Bonus - Did you know that the Music for Young Violinists project also has free sheet music? I would love to share my ever-growing FREEBIES page with you (107 free downloads to date) and share a free Welcome Packet with you.
Why I Like? The M4YV page includes not just violin sheet music but helpful things to support the music process like practice charts, flash cards, learning resources, motivational quotes and fun things like violin coloring sheets.
Why I Like? The M4YV page includes not just violin sheet music but helpful things to support the music process like practice charts, flash cards, learning resources, motivational quotes and fun things like violin coloring sheets.
Learn 4 ways to keep you and your students healthy.
Includes a hand washing video tutorial by a registered nurse and a free download.
Includes a hand washing video tutorial by a registered nurse and a free download.
I have heard the statement above from several parents in my studio over the years. While I understand this sentiment, it can be more complicated because children can show symptoms of being sick very rapidly. For example, they can go to school normally presenting, feeling well and then come down with a fever halfway through the school day. This is not the fault of the parent. It does not help that many parents have inflexible policies with their work obligations that make staying home with a sick child difficult to organize.
That being said, there absolutely is truth in the fact that if someone is sick and stays home, it will prevent the pathogenic "bug" from being shared and infecting others. It is the timeless golden rule "do onto others as you would have done to yourself."
That being said, there absolutely is truth in the fact that if someone is sick and stays home, it will prevent the pathogenic "bug" from being shared and infecting others. It is the timeless golden rule "do onto others as you would have done to yourself."
As a music teacher and adult, it is your responsibility to keep your studio healthy. Below are 4 ways you can accomplish this.
Please also review the blog posts:
Thank You for Washing Your Hands Before Your Lesson
How to Keep Your Studio Healthy
for additional resources + download a free hand washing sign PDF on the FREEBIES page to post in your studio/school.
Please also review the blog posts:
Thank You for Washing Your Hands Before Your Lesson
How to Keep Your Studio Healthy
for additional resources + download a free hand washing sign PDF on the FREEBIES page to post in your studio/school.
1- Create studio policies where neither teacher nor student feels obligated to come to lessons when sick. Studio policies need built-in flexibility to allow both participants to refrain from attending if they are sick without fear of financial loss.
Also, consider adding a "Winter Break" to your school year. Starting in 2016, I began adding a winter break to my studio during the second week of February. I chose this time of year because this was when most absences due to illness occurred. Also, I believe the winter season should be more restful than other times. Tuition remained the same, so I did not see a reduction in my income. Both students and I used this as a time to take care of our health with extra rest and self-care, resulting in less sickness in my studio.
Also, consider adding a "Winter Break" to your school year. Starting in 2016, I began adding a winter break to my studio during the second week of February. I chose this time of year because this was when most absences due to illness occurred. Also, I believe the winter season should be more restful than other times. Tuition remained the same, so I did not see a reduction in my income. Both students and I used this as a time to take care of our health with extra rest and self-care, resulting in less sickness in my studio.
2- Teach and enforce proper hand washing. Proper hand washing lasts 20 seconds, requires friction and specific techniques. Your students should be expected to wash their hands:
1- Before a lesson.
2- If they touch a mucous membrane (such as the nose) or other body fluid.
3- If they sneeze or cough.
Young students will need to be instructed on how to properly wash their hands and observed while learning this skill.
3- Teachers need to model their expectations for their students and take responsibility for the wellness of their studio. If you, as the teacher, are not feeling well, then you are expected to stay in bed. Again, this leads back to the importance of having policies supporting you so that your income does not suffer while you are recuperating.
You are apt to feel better at all times by instilling healthy practices such as prioritizing rest, staying hydrated with water and eating proper nutrition.
You are apt to feel better at all times by instilling healthy practices such as prioritizing rest, staying hydrated with water and eating proper nutrition.
4- Use technology such as Skype to have a video lesson instead of a face-to-face lesson. Other internet lesson solutions include FaceTime and Zoom. Alternatively, you can have your student email or text a video to review. Always aim to build into your teaching techniques how to practice so you have embedded clear expectations for successful independent home practice.
On this note, if you have not observed your students practice, I urge you not to make the same mistake I did. Finally, after 20 years of teaching, I spent 1 week watching my students practice (learn more about The Practice Experiment), which was shocking. After I watched my students practice, only then did I know how to create a clarity of expectation for the students to reach their highest level.
On this note, if you have not observed your students practice, I urge you not to make the same mistake I did. Finally, after 20 years of teaching, I spent 1 week watching my students practice (learn more about The Practice Experiment), which was shocking. After I watched my students practice, only then did I know how to create a clarity of expectation for the students to reach their highest level.
Have a tip to share for how you keep your studio healthy?
Please share in the comments below. Thanks!
Please share in the comments below. Thanks!
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Author
Hi! It's me, Heather. I absolutely love working on the Music for Young Violinists project and all the many facets: blogging, website, music, teaching materials, freebies, videos, newsletter and giveaway contests. The best part is connecting with you so feel free to drop me a line. You can learn more about me on the "ABOUT" page. Thanks!
