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Lesson 3 - more OPEN string pieces

Back to: Lesson 2

or on to: Lesson 4

7 Little Playmates - Student's Track
00:00
7 Little Playmates - Duet
00:00
8 Mobile Phone - Student's Track
00:00
8 Mobile Phone - Duet
00:00
9 Fiddle Fanfare - Student's Track
00:00
9 Fiddle Fanfare - Student's Track
00:00

What can go wrong in the pieces?

Most students have a few problems at the stage but there are easy to correct. Firstly, catching the wrong strings which is usually caused by trying to play too quickly. So practise steadily and build up your speed as you become more confident.

Secondly, some students tend to speed up as they play and get out of time with the music.  I recommend that you only begin to play along to the Student Tracks once you've practised the pieces slowly on your own.

Sometimes you may feel distracted by the other part in the duets. This is quite normal. By focussing on your own part whilst keeping aware of the other part you will gradually get used to this.

Thirdly, although you know you are playing in time, something seems to be wrong with the notes. Do check that you are in tune before starting.

Key Points

  • First of all make sure you violin is in tune.

  • You will continue with plucking the violin in guitar position.

  • The purpose of this lesson is to learn some new pieces so that you will use them later on when you place the violin underneath your chin and start to use the bow. For this reason the video is a short one just to get you started with the pieces.  

  • Try closing your eyes to see if you can memorise the tunes.

  • Be aware that the notes are the same length whether their tails up or down.

  • Practise along with the student piece first.

  • Practise with the student's track until you are comfortable and then try the duets.

  • As before, gradually reduce the amount of time you spend looking down at your fingers and instrument. Bit-by-bit keep your eyes on where you are in the music.

  • You will make progress with just  a few minutes practice each day. You don't need to do lots.

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