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 | I teach using the traditional method of teaching. I use the Suzuki books, but not the method. If you are specifically looking for a Suzuki teacher, go to Links and pick the Suzuki Association. Beginners will start playing by rote so that we can concentrate on the position of the instrument and bow. We will then begin to read and write musical notation. We also clap and play the different rhythms that are in the current piece of music. Major and minor scales are played by all students as soon as they are able. These help immensely with intonation and fluency of the fingers. They are also a good tool for learning new bowing techniques. The amount of practice required varies according to the level of playing and the goals of the student. Half an hour per day is usually sufficient for beginners. Young students will usually benefit from frequent short sessions of practice, ie: three 10 minute sessions. Older and more advanced students are usually allowed to decide for themselves how much practice they will do. We will put the emphasis on goals for the week rather than on hours of practice. Each student will need a violin that is the correct size. There are many stores that rent violins and these places can help you determine what size is right for your student. See Links for my favorite violin shop. We will also need some rosin, also supplied by the violin shop, and a clean cloth for wiping the violin after playing. Many students will also need a shoulder rest. These come in many shapes and sizes, and it is best to buy one after playing the violin for a while so you can see what size you need and what is comfortable for you. Students will be required to purchase books of music. These books can be bought from me or from local music stores. Beginners will start in the Suzuki Book I. Other books will be added as needed. More advanced students should bring whatever music they have to the first lesson and we will decide from there what else is needed. If you have specific questions about the violin and lessons that aren't answered here, please don't hesitate to contact me. Referrals will be supplied on request. |