Last spring when I bought a new violin, I needed a new case to put it in too. I love the looks, protection and accessories provided by high-end cases (BAM, Musafia) but NOT the price tags! On the other hand, I have plenty of experience with cheap cases with...
I read a fascinating book over the summer: “The Talent Code” by Daniel Coyle. Subtitle: “Greatness isn’t born, it’s grown. Here’s how.” The book takes you on a wide-ranging journey to talent “factories” like a run-down tennis gym in Russia, a run-down indoor soccer arena in Brazil, a run-down...
Traveling with your fiddle this summer? Know your rights as an airline passenger! Don’t get stuck on the tarmac like these guys (caution, mild language in video inside the article). In 2012, Congress passed the FAA Modernization and Reform Act, which states, “An air carrier providing air transportation shall permit...
In 2012, I earned my NCTM designation from the Music Teachers National Association, the oldest association for music teachers in the U.S. (since 1876). What does this signify? I produced a 60+-page document along with over 4 hours of video to complete the Teacher Profile Projects required of applicants...
If you’ve enjoyed using the Shar string chart to pick out the perfect strings for your instrument, you’re going to like this tool also! I found this graphic at selectviolins.com and I have found it useful to refer to when shopping for a new violin. Print out several copies and grade...
by David R. Shanks, from Science Spectra, 1999, Number 18. Above: Cumulative amounts of practice achieved over their lifetime by different groups of violinists in a study by Ericsson, Krampe and Tesch-Römer (Psychological Review, 100, 363-406, (1993)). By the age of 20, the best musicians at the Music Academy...
I just completed a phenomenal weekend seminar of teacher-training in the Mark O’Connor Violin Method and can now offer this new approach to my students. Books 1 and 2 are suitable for beginners through Level 3 students, and even beyond for those who would like to add improvisation and...