Old Time Fiddle Classes with Jane

Service Description

Beginner We will start off by learning how to hold the fiddle and bow properly and get started playing open strings, some simple rhythms and putting your fingers down to play notes, scales and some simple melodies! Rhythm is the most important part of fiddling and the focus of the beginner classes is to use repetition and muscle memory to help you get playing quickly! Intermediate This class will focus on adding a variety of tunes to your repertoire with special attention to learning a variety of bowing rhythms and patterns to add more musicality and speed to your playing! All tunes will be taught by ear, and Janie will help you with strategies to learn how to pick up a tune “on the fly” at jams and from old source recordings. Advanced This class will delve into more complicated and challenging tunes, with an emphasis on tone, melodic and bowing expression and interpretation of the traditional tunes. We will take melodies and explore how to express yourself with old time music-Find your style and sound! Janie will work with you on chords, developing melodic improvisational variations and more advanced bowing with a variety of tunes such as reels, waltzes and rags. Instrument and Accessories Violin and bow: Please make sure your instrument and bow are in good playing condition with fine tuners on the tailpiece (you can get a tailpiece that has the tuners as part of the tailpiece OR add tuners individually to your instrument, new strings and maybe a bow rehair if necessary. If you are using a shoulder rest and are able, go to a store to try out a variety of them. I can help with advise on setting it up for you in the right place and height. Strings: I use Helicore Medium Strings. Electronic Clip on Tuner: Snarks work well and are moderately priced, but they break easily. Rosin: There is a variety of rosin available at different prices. If you are not sure, go for the middle priced green!

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