Overview Course by Ronda Cole

Fundamental Violin Techniques and Overview of Suzuki Violin Books 1–4

August 16–20 on the campus of Eastern Michigan University,Ypsilanti, MI

The purpose of the Fundamental Violin Techniques and Overview Course is to study, from the teacher’s perspective, fundamental violin playing techniques, as they apply to beginning students, advanced students, and professional players. The course will include:

  • Teaching children and parents how to practice.
  • Musical expression and imagery.
  • The development of efficient and healthy technique designed to give physical freedom and avoid injury.
  • Opportunity for teachers to have an individual masterclass lesson. (Places are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.)
  • Observation of student lessons.
  • Discussion of learning styles.
  • Left- and right-brain training.
  • Opportunity for coaching in leading (conducting with the violin) the group class of teachers using Suzuki repertory of your choice.
  • Discussion on how to prepare families to begin the Suzuki experience.

Music from the Suzuki Violin School, volumes 1-4, will be used to trace musical and technical development. Topics for playing and discussion will include: psychology and structure for remediation, musical imaging, group class leadership techniques, balanced posture, intonation, vibrato, velocity, balanced bowing, tone production, legato, staccato, spiccato, collé,  sautillé, string crossings, and chords.

Participants who elect an individual masterclass lesson during the class may play from Suzuki violin books or other repertoire.

Participants are to bring a violin, Suzuki Violin School Books volumes 1–4, and note-taking materials.

The Suzuki Association of the Americas (SAA) offers this course to active members. A strictly limited number of current and active SAA member participants who fulfill the course prerequisite, attend all sessions, and observe the eight hours of lessons offered may register their training with the SAA. Only participants may register credits with the SAA.

Prerequisite for taking the course as an active participant: completion and registration of Suzuki Books 1-4 teacher training. The course may be taken on Auditor status.