Violin Class: Recent Episodes
Julia Reddy
Violin Class is a podcast for the non-professional violinist and violin enthusiast. Join me to learn what you should know about the instrument, technique tips, practicing, the repertoire, and history of the violin, from the perspective of a professional violinist and violin teacher. Hosted by Julia Reddy, www.juliareddy.com; instagram: @juliareddymusic; contact: violinclasspod@gmail.com
I've talked a lot about violin warmups and technique exercises that you should be doing at the beginning of your practice session, but it’s just as important to look at how to end our practice.
The way we end our practice session sets up the beginning of the next day’s work, and ideally we end wanting to go on and not in a mountain of frustration (although that happens, too!)
Here’s my suggestion for ending your violin practice: the R/R/R method.
Send me a text message
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
I’m joined by cellist and online editor of the Strad, Davina Shum. We discuss practicing, careers in classical music, and practical tips for adult learners.
Full blog post
the Strad Podcast
Articles by Davina:
Why don't string players practice pizzicato
The importance and difficulty of playing softly
A case for depping
Send me a text message
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
In my 15 years of teaching violin, I’ve noticed a topic that is confusing for a lot of adult learners: how to structure their technique and warmup practice.
In this blog post, I wanted to discuss six things that I think that every violinist should be practicing in some form at every practice session— some of these will be more geared towards intermediate to advanced players, but most will apply to beginners as well. I hope to give you a few more things to add to your practice routine and some ideas for how to practice them.
Full blog post
Free warmup guide
Send me a text message!
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
I’m joined violists Liz & Steph, the hosts of MusicianCentric Podcast. They share new research on how to practice smarter and the differences between viola and violin.
Listen to MusicianCentric podcast here
Molly Gebrian episode / Susanna Klein episode
Full blog post and transcript
Free violin warmups guide
Join the Violin Class newsletter
Send me a text message!
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
I’m sharing an interview with my private student, Carly. Carly started the violin in her late 20s and has made fast progress in the 2 years that we have been working together.
She discusses how she’s been able to progress without having a ton of time to practice— in addition to learning violin, Carly is busy raising and homeschooling 4 young children.
Send me a text message!
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
Joining me on Violin Class this week is violin teacher Rachael Ridge, with whom I’ll be discussing:
- Body awareness
- How to relax and release tension as an adult learner.
- The importance of singing
- Proper posture on violin
As well as her own journey with arthritis and how she’s been able to practice to avoid pain.
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
Vibrato Series 1/3.
Did you know that certain styles of vibrato can be controversial? This episodes explores the most common mistakes violinists make at every level of their playing.
In this episode, you’ll learn about what issues are most prevalent when violinists are learning vibrato in beginner, intermediate, and advanced stages of their studies.
Links:
Vibrato Masterclass - Live online class April 13th
Free vibrato ebook
Accompanying blog post | video version
Violin Class newsletter
Other vibrato episodes: Part 2 | Part 1
For lesson inquiries, contact me here or email me at violinclasspod@gmail.com.
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
Vibrato series 2/3
Learning vibrato is such an important rite of passage when it comes to learning the violin. It's something that every violin student strives for and something that sometimes feels impossible to learn.
However, vibrato is not a beginner technique, and I completely understand the frustration when it comes to wanting to play with a beautiful sound but not having vibrato in your toolbox.
Here are some things that you can start doing even as a beginner, even in your first year of violin playing to get ready to learn vibrato.
Links:
Vibrato Masterclass - Live online class April 13th:
Free vibrato ebook
Accompanying blog post
Violin Class newsletter
Other vibrato episodes: Part 1 | Part 3
For lesson inquiries, contact me here or email me at violinclasspod@gmail.com.
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
Vibrato Series 1/3.
Learning vibrato is a long process, but there is a method to it. With the right guidance, a lot of practice and a whole lot of patience, you can learn vibrato and add it to your playing.
In this episode, you’ll learn about:
- What vibrato is and how it works
- Arm vs. wrist vibrato
- The 4 stages of learning vibrato
- Examples of different styles of vibrato
Links:
Vibrato Masterclass - Live online class April 13th:
Free vibrato ebook
Accompanying blog post | video version
Violin Class newsletter
Other vibrato episodes: Part 2 | Part 3
For lesson inquiries, contact me here or email me at violinclasspod@gmail.com.
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
So much to practice and so little time: I think this is a feeling that a lot of us can relate to. I'm going to show you how you can continue to progress on the violin even if you're limited by your schedule.
In this episode, I discuss:
- The 2 keys to practicing with limited time
- How to fit more violin practice time into your day
- How to approach practicing during busy seasons of life
- My 3-template practice plan system
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
This week, I’m sharing a conversation with my private student Lisa, who has been playing the violin for 2 years. She shares her advice for beginners and how she makes music a meaningful part of her life.
Join the Violin Class newsletter for more bonus content with each new episode & violin tips:
violinclass.co/newsletter
Free warmups ebook:
violinclass.co/warmups
violinclass.co
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
They say the best way of learning a language quickly and completely is total immersion, and the same is true for violin. In this episode, I walk you through a day-in-the-life of a conservatory student and give you ideas for creating an immersive experience of your own.
For lesson inquiries, email me at violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Join the Violin Class newsletter for extra tidbits with each episode:
violinclass.co/newsletter
For links and examples mentioned in this episode, see the accompanying blog post at violinclass.co/episodes/36
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
I delve into nitty-gritty of playing the violin faster, and share the steps to building up speed while maintaining clarity.
For lesson inquiries, email me at violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Join the Violin Class newsletter for extra tidbits with each episode:
violinclass.co/newsletter
For links and examples mentioned in this episode, see the accompanying blog post at violinclass.co/episodes/36
violinclass.co
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
I share some advice to adult violin learners who are just starting, including setting realistic goals, the importance of regular practice, choosing the right resources, when to start lessons, and the benefits of active listening.
Join the Violin Class newsletter for extra tidbits with each episode:
violinclass.co/newsletter
For links mentioned in this episode, see the accompanying blog post at violinclass.co/episodes/36
For lesson inquiries, you can email me at violinclasspod@gmail.com
For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail.com.
Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
I dive into some of the common mistakes I run into as a violin teacher, and some of the solutions (sometimes quick, sometimes less quick) to fix them.
To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here:
violinclass.co/newsletter
This week, I’m sharing a conversation with my former student, who has been playing the violin for 3 years. We discuss how she was able to join a band and performed a live show after playing violin for a few month, and how she makes time for practice with a busy schedule.
Join the Violin Class newsletter for more bonus content with each new episode & violin tips:
violinclass.co/newsletter
Free warmups ebook:
violinclass.co/warmups
Instagram:
@violinclassco
I walk you through my routine for practicing my scales, including slow and acceleration scales, different bowing patterns, and arpeggios.
To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter
Sign up for the Creative Scales Workshop
Saturday, April 29th at 2pm (Eastern Time)
Scales can be fun!
In this live workshop, you'll learn:
- New ideas and creative ways to practice your violin scales
- How to use scales to play violin more expressively
- How to get a great technical workout without getting bored
Although we mainly stick with classical violin here on Violin Class, I have a lot of jazz-curious listeners. That's why I’ve invited Matt Holborn of the Jazz Violin podcast to join me.
Join the Violin Class newsletter for more bonus content with each new episode: violinclass.co/newsletter.
Read the corresponding blog post, featuring the 10 jazz violinists you should listen to here.
Matt Holborn is an improvising violinist based in London. He performs with The London Django Collective, Learn To Draw and curates nights for Soho Jazz Live. Along with a busy performance schedule, Matt is also a jazz violin teacher and podcaster, hosting the Jazz Violin Podcast
You can find Matt here:
Website
The Jazz Violin Podcast
Instagram
I'm joined by luthiers Rozie Deloach and Jerry Lynn of OMO podast: The Romance & Reality of violin makers
Join the Violin Class newsletter for more bonus content with each new episode: violinclass.co/newsletter.
Four strategies for avoiding burnout when practicing the violin, including cutting down on practice time, mixing up your routine, taking short breaks, and giving yourself space.
Resources mentioned:
Free download: Violin Warmups: The Complete Guide for Adult Beginners
Join newsletter for bonus content with each new episode
Blog post:
Where you can find me:
Website: violinclass.co
Instagram: instagram.com/violinclassco
Email: violinclasspod@gmail.com
Like the show? Leave a rating or review— this is the best way of helping me reach a larger audience
To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here:
violinclass.co/newsletter
Check out Laurel Thomsen - The Violin Geek Podcast.
In this episode, we’re going to look at one of the first things I want my private violin students to learn how to do— diagnosing these errors on your own and having the tools to fix them.
This is part 2/2 of troubleshooting unpleasant sounds on the violin.
To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here:
violinclass.co/newsletter
If you want to keep this podcast running, please consider showing your support by buying me a coffee:
https://ko-fi.com/violinclass
You’re not sounding so hot in today’s violin practice session. Is it you or your violin?
To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here:
violinclass.co/newsletter
I'm joined by Eric Mrugala, a violinist and host of the Violin Podcast. We’re discussing the state of the career of a modern-day violinist, how that has changed with the rise of social media, and what we think is missing in music schools to prepare violinists for the realities of modern-day violinists’ careers. You can check out our other collaborative episode on his show here: https://www.violinpodcast.com/43-julia-reddy-host-of-violin-class-podcast/
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To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here:
violinclass.co/newsletter
I talk to my violin student Julia, who has been playing the violin for a bit over a year and a half and is what I would consider an example of a dedicated student of violin.
Julia gives her advice to others learning the violin, her perspective on overcoming all the mental hurdles that come with learning a complex skill, and how sometimes you need to step away from your goals to stay on track. Other topics we touch on is how she fits violin and classical music into her daily life, and just generally things that she enjoys about the violin.
To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter
Active listening: a vital skill for all violinists. Learn how to source good recordings, which to avoid, whether it makes a difference to listen with video or audio, and then, the most important part, how to listen.
To read the full show notes, recordings, and bonus material, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter
I’m going to walk you through this using several recordings of the same piece, and we’re going to listen and analyze them together.
Lastly, you’ll hear from my private students discuss how they use recordings, and how it has helped them.
Say hi at violinclasspod@gmail.com
If you’re learning a piece of music, there’s one thing you really need to be doing outside of practice. Part 1/2
To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter
To read the full show notes and bonus content for this episode, join the Violin Class newsletter here:
violinclass.co/newsletter
In this episode, violist Evalynn Tyros gives you a behind-the-scene perspective into what only happens behind closed doors in the classical world: the audition process.
Musicians give their everything in these auditions, and it’s incredibly difficult and competitive to win a job. And that’s the term we use— winning a job. Because it is every bit a competition.
Tracking your progress and progress can be a great tool to keep you motivated and organized.
I will walk you through how to keep a practice journal effectively, and how to use it to keep your violin practice on track.
For the full show notes, including a full example of one of my own practice plans, sign up for the newsletter at violinclass.co/newsletter
When should you start learning vibrato?
I answer my #1 most asked question as a violin teacher. Listen to learn what I look for before starting vibrato, how long it takes to learn, when I personally teach it, and what you can do to start preparing-- even as a beginner.
For the full show notes, including my favorite vibrato explanations on the internet, vibrato examples + guided listening questions, sign up for the newsletter at violinclass.co/newsletter
Sign up for the Violin Class Insiders newsletter to read the full show notes, written parts of this episode, and some bonus content at violinclass.co/newsletter
New to classical music? Start here!
The classical world is a bit intimidating if you're just starting out, but attending a live concert is one of the best things to go out and see if you're learning the violin.
Listen to learn audience etiquette, the best places to find local concerts , what type of concerts you should see for your first show, how to find affordable concerts, and much more. You'll also hear how to get the most out of your listening experience as someone studying a classical instrument.
You can contact me directly at violinclasspod@gmail.com
If you would like to support the show, you can donate here.
This podcast is a one-woman operation and uses no affiliate links or sponsorships, so your donations are what keeps this show running and available for free. Your support will help to cover the costs of hosting, the website, and other recurring fees, as well as the many hours of research, recording, and editing. Thank you so much for your support!
Do you have what you need to have a successful violin practice? Listen to find out what you need to set up your space (spoiler...it's not much).
In the second half, I cover some ideas and solutions for those of you who have to be mindful of your noise production (thin walls, roommates, neighbors...)
In this episode, my private student Andres shares his story of how he came into the violin 5 years ago without any previous musical experience, and how he's been able to establish a consistent practice over the years while balancing with a demanding career.
Andres shares his process and practice tips, what the violin means to him, and how he's kept on going through the challenges. He also discusses how performing has made him a better violinist, and his advice for someone who is just starting in their violin journey.
If you're just starting to learn the violin as an adult or have been playing for a few years, this episode is for you.
Student stories #2 - Andres
Classical violinists are expected to have the skills to play virtuosic repertoire, beautiful melodies, and sight read almost perfectly...so why can't most improvise over simple chord changes? The history is pretty fascinating!
Sources:
The Decline of Improvisation in Western Art Music: An Interpretation of Change -Robin Moore
https://www.jstor.org/stable/43873094?seq=1
Ferand, Ernst T. “Improvisation in Music History and Education.” Papers of the American Musicological Society, 1940, pp. 115–125. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/43873094. Accessed 4 Dec. 2020.
Ivor Keys - Mozart, His Music in His Life
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Recommended listening:
Stephanie Grapelli & Django Reinhardt - Minor Swing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CDoJFmdFgA
I'm back with new episodes of Violin Class!
This week I'm covering the top 5 mistakes that we all make when practicing violin.
Today we're discussing important things that you probably haven't thought to wonder about-- like how humidity and your climate affects your instrument, what you should be communicating to your luthier when getting repairs. Luthiers know way more about violins than violinists do, so you will definitely learn a lot of new things in this episode!
You can find Ian Christian here:
Instagram: iclutherie
www.iclutherie.com
Products mentioned (not sponsored, not an affiliate links):
Acurite humidistat : https://www.acurite.com/shop-all/weather-instruments/thermometers-and-hygrometers/humidity-temperature-monitor-00613.html
In this episode, my private student Olivia shares her story of how she went from being a total beginner to starting a Vivaldi concerto in just 2 years, all while being a working full-time university student.
Olivia shares her process, how she makes time for practicing consistently around her busy schedule, and her advice to those just starting out. She also shares how to push through plateaus in your progress, which is all violinists, both students and pros, go through.
If you're just starting to learn the violin as an adult, this episode is for you, from someone who was in your shoes not so long ago.
Student stories #1 - Olivia
What’s the difference between a fiddle and a violin?
How do you get started learning to fiddle if you come form a classical music background?
What should you know going into your first Irish fiddle session?
This week’s episode of Violin Class Podcast features guest expert, fiddler, and ethnomusicologist Hannah Harris, who answers all of these questions and many more.
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Hannah Harris:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChtEmvM5SUjs7MQbbWcf6qg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahharrisceol
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hannahharrisceol
Free Weekly Fiddle Tips: https://mailchi.mp/hannahharrisceol/fiddle-student-landing-page
Find Your Lilt Bowing Course: https://hannahharrisceol.com/enroll
Album Purchase: https://hannahharrisceol.com/shop
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7bZemYFnUg1waaTj84M63r?si=c5niXcrbQEy0mk24lsm44Q
___________________
Books Mentioned:
The Irish Fiddle Book -- Matt Cranitch
A Complete Guide to Learning the Irish Fiddle -- Paul McNevin
Field Guide to the Irish Music Session -- Barry Foy
Violin Dreams -- Arnold Steinhardt
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If you've taken a long break from playing violin, don’t just jump right into playing the last thing you were practicing before you stopped. This week’s episode to learn how I get into shape efficiently and safely - including specific etudes, exercises, and strategies.
But wait! This is part 2-- go listen to VC#6 first.
Etudes and exercises mentioned in this episode:
Sevcik Op 1, Bk 1:
https://ks4.imslp.info/files/imglnks/usimg/c/c6/IMSLP24975-School_of_Violin_Technique_Op.1_Book1_for_Violin.pdf
Shradieck School of Violin Technics:
https://ks.imslp.info/files/imglnks/usimg/3/37/IMSLP26801-PMLP59431-Henry_Schradieck_School_of_Violin_Technics_Bk.1.pdf
Yost Shifting Book:
https://ks.imslp.info/files/imglnks/usimg/5/5a/IMSLP87152-PMLP178161-Yost_-_The_Yost_System_for_Violin_-_Exercises_for_Changing_of_Position.pdf
Sevcik Op 2:
https://ks4.imslp.info/files/imglnks/usimg/f/fa/IMSLP54472-PMLP45683-Sevcik,_Otakar_-_The_bowing_school._op._2_(Violin)._Book_1.pdf
Kreutzer:
https://ks.imslp.info/files/imglnks/usimg/0/0d/IMSLP01503-Kreutzer_Complete_Etudes.pdf
Mazas:
https://ks.imslp.info/files/imglnks/usimg/7/7f/IMSLP300630-SIBLEY1802.23814.ee00-39087023669957vol._1_score.pdf
Wohlfahrt:
https://ks.imslp.info/files/imglnks/usimg/2/24/IMSLP19882-PMLP46562-Wohlfahrt_Op_45_Bk_1.pdf
Sometimes, life gets in the way and you’ve stopped playing or practicing violin. You may have gone off to college, started a family, or just taken a break. Whether you’ve been away for a few months, or a few decades, there are some tips and things to keep in mind when you're ready to start up again.
In this episode I will be going over some of the types of pieces in the classical violin repertoire, including some pieces you should listen to and familiarize yourself with. There are many, many pieces written for the violin, so if you have a new interest for the classical violin world it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start. The goal of this episode is to help give you some background to help demystify and help you better understand the music you like to listen to.
Spotify playlist with all the music mentioned in this episode, plus some bonus listening:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/59V9Ik2DKdgUmZTc4nc4g8?si=tjrez6VNSZmHWpiFRLAAqw
Everything you should know about taking care of your instrument - all your questions answered! When should you change strings, when should you visit the luthier, can you keep your violin on the wall, do you need a humidifier, and many more tips.
Things you should be aware of to help you prepare to buy an instrument.
Online retailer mentioned:
https://www.sharmusic.com/
If you have any suggestions for a future episode, or just want to say hi, you and write to me at learnviolinpodcast@gmail.com.
Instagram:
Podcast: @violinclasspod
Me: @juliareddymusic
If you're taking violin lessons with a private teacher, here are 7 things you should be doing to get the most out of your classes.
If you have any suggestions for a future episode, or just want to say hi, you and write to me at learnviolinpodcast@gmail.com.
Instagram:
Podcast: @violinclasspod
Me: @juliareddymusic
In this episode, I go over the seven reasons why it's easier to learn the violin as an adult than as a kid. I also go over the advantages that kids have when learning an instrument, and how we can apply that to our learning.
Have an idea for a future episode? Write to me here: violinclasspod@gmail.com
Introducing Violin Class, a podcast for the non-professional violinist. Here I cover a bit of background on what will be discussed in upcoming episodes.