In a previous post I wrote about some ways to effectively prepare for an audition. In this post, I will share some thoughts on how to be comfortable and confident on audition day. Rest The night prior to an audition…
Many ensembles and colleges require a performance audition in order to be admitted into their programs or groups. I have worked with many students in my school and through private study to help them prepare for auditions for youth orchestras,…
You know the story: your child works hard all year on their musical studies. When you hear them play at the final concert, you can’t believe how far they’ve come and how great they sound. Then summer comes.
Below is a compiled list of youth orchestras, honors orchestras, jazz ensembles, and further playing opportunities for young bassists and string players in the New Jersey and Philadelphia metro area. Please let me know of any opportunities and ensembles I…
Music is a complex area of study. The language of music – notation, symbols, and so on – can be challenging to learn. The technical aspects of playing an instrument and the development of one’s ear are all life time…
I was recently working with a student on a solo piece they had begun practicing. The student was playing the piece well, but the technical demands of the piece and the rhythm and time feel were proving challenging. After the…
At the beginning of each school year I like to review basic string instrument care and maintenance with my students. Younger students may not be sure how to care for their new instrument and older students might benefit from…
Within our classrooms and private teaching it is vital to share with our students that whatever style of music they like, may want to play, or are performing in an ensemble, in order to learn that music and really get…
In this post we will discuss four ways to practice intonation and develop more accurate pitch recognition in your students, ensemble, or personal playing. As a string player, solid intonation – or accuracy of pitch – is something that must…