Violin and viola 1B

What is the course about?

You will develop your playing techniques for violin or viola, tuning of your instrument, and reading music notation. It continues with Violin and viola 1C.

What will we cover?

- How to hold the instrument and bow correctly
- Good posture and movement while playing
- More fingering patterns (including use of the natural 2nd finger)
- How to listen to and improve your own intonation
- Reading and writing music notation.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Manage the violin and bow with some confidence
- Improve your tone quality
- Know how to improve your intonation
- Know the sound and structure of major scales starting on open strings
- Read and play a variety of simple tunes and rhythms.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is suitable for those who have been learning the instrument for at least one term, and can read simple music notation. 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?

We work as a group with some individual attention from the tutor and frequent division into smaller groups. The tutor leads the class by explaining, demonstrating and playing with the group. You will make good progress if you play and practice at home for at least 15 minutes 4 or 5 times a 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 1C 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.