Violin Resources
Stop Nagging, Start Teaching
Fix Bow Holds Without the Burnout We have all been there. You started teaching because you are passionate about the violin, but six weeks into a new term with a group of energetic beginners, you realise you have spent 90% of your time stuck on repeat. You do all the voices: kind, gentle, funny: trying to curb your inner frustration. You know you need to cure bad habits before they even start, but it can be an immense drain on your energy. “Keep that thumb curvy.” “Watch your pinky.” “Don’t let the bow slide.” By the time you actually get…
String Note Tutor and String Position Pro
Gimmick-free apps that support teaching and home practice for Violin, Viola, Cello, and Double Bass. “Is there an app for that?” was the question I so frequently encountered from parents when discussing fingerboard mapping and note reading. In other words, they recognised the need for daily reinforcement of what had been covered in the lesson, but felt they lacked the expertise (or time!) to reliably help their children. I would have to answer “unfortunately not”, and would instead recommend apps for note recognition, piano lessons in addition to string lessons, as well as making physical flashcards. Bit by bit,…
Customizing Exercises on MusicTheory.net
Customizing exercises on MusicTheory.net is an excellent way to tailor practice sessions to specific learning goals, whether you’re a student honing your skills or a teacher crafting targeted assignments. The Exercise Customizer tool allows you to create permanent links to personalized exercises, which can be particularly beneficial for reinforcing concepts in a focused manner. 1. Access the Exercise Customizer Navigate to the Exercise CustomizerLinks to an external site.on MusicTheory.net. This tool is designed for both educators and learners to create bespoke exercises. 2. Select Your Desired Exercise Choose from a variety of exercises, such as: Note Identification Key Signature Identification Interval…
Empowered Note Reading – Angela Harman
If you haven’t yet discovered the brilliance of Angela Harman’s work, you’re in for a treat. Angela is widely known for her innovative, classroom-tested strategies that make string teaching more engaging, effective, and joyful. In today’s post, she dives into one of the most vital—and sometimes overlooked—skills for young musicians: note reading. With her signature blend of practicality and creativity, Angela shares a treasure trove of tools and approaches that empower students to read music with confidence and curiosity. Empowered Note Reading by Angela Harman (www.orchestraclassroom.com) As my beginning students practice reading music, I scan the room, looking at their…