Violin and viola 1A
Course Code: ME131A
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Duration: 10 sessions (over 10 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Center for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
You will learn the basic playing techniques for violin or viola, and learn to read basic music notation. This course is for complete beginners and continues to Violin and viola 1B next term.
What will we cover?
- How to hold the instrument and bow correctly
- Good posture and movement while playing
- Basic fingering patterns to allow you to play simple tunes
- How to listen to your own intonation and play in tune
- Reading and writing simple music notation for violin/viola.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Manage the violin/viola and bow
- Produce a pleasant tone
- Know the sound and structure of major scales starting on open strings
- Read and play simple tunes and rhythms in time and in tune.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is for complete beginners.
You will need to follow written and verbal instructions in English and engage in class discussions.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Classes comprise tutor explanation and demonstration, group playing and individual practice. Sessions will also include class discussion, aural skills and music theory relevant to violin/viola playing.
To make progress you will need to practise regularly outside class (ideally at least 20 minutes on least 4 days per week).
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Please bring your own violin or viola kit (including bow, rosin and shoulder rest), plus pen, pencil, eraser and notepad. You will need to purchase some music (which will be used throughout level 1 ABC). Other materials will be provided by the tutor via Google Classroom, including notation in treble clef for viola music / alto clef for violin books
Violin/Viola Sarah Pope, A New Tune A Day for violin / viola
Violin ABRSM Violin Grade 1 Pieces
Viola ABRSM More Time Pieces for Viola 1 (Grades 1-3)
See our guide on Where to buy music and instruments. A decent student violin/viola costs at least £80; quality will increase greatly with price, and the better your instrument the easier you will find it to play. You can also hire instruments from some stores.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
This course leads to Violin and viola 1B next term.
You may wish to support your learning through a focus on reading, writing and hearing music and musical patterns. For details please visit our post onMusicianship and music theory at City Lit.
