Smart tips for teaching intonation on the violin, viola, cello or double bass in the private lesson or string classroom.

 

Do Your Students Have Major Pattern Addiction?

You know those students who really aren’t listening?  The ones who never adjust their finger patterns from string to string?  The ones who are totally unaware of how they actually sound?  How do you motivate these students to play the … Read More

Why Should String Players Practice Scales?

Why do we practice scales? Have you ever given more than a moment’s thought to this? Sure, we practice scales to learn fingering, some rhythms, and to practice shifting. But there must be more to it, or the most elite … Read More

Start Stringed Instruments Playing By Ear

It is very common for string teachers, whether they be classroom teachers or private violin, viola and cello teachers, to start their students off playing by ear.  This sets up a foundation for intonation and listening. Because playing a stringed … Read More