Violin/Fiddle: Learning Materials

Date: Sat, 27 Nov 2004 13:28:15 EST
Subject: you are so kind to respond

Thanks for responding.
I can see you definitely have a passion for helping others play their instrument.

Thanks Kelly...I'm glad to assist.

I forgot to mention that I play an electric violin out at our gigs.I started with an acoustic but my partner started me on an electric 5 string so I could work alot on my C string.I still play my acoustic and have the same tonal problems but not as bad.But I find that because the attack and hold on my heavier electric is so different I need a while to adjust to my acoustic to want to be in the same room with myself when I play.And when I play my acoustic for a few hours it takes some time of adjustment to find my best tone again on my electric.Sounds crazy doesn't it?

Yes...only this is to be expected. I have a problem adjusting to other violin fingerboards. It seems most all of them are different in some way.

I will focus on your advice and try less rosin,work on using less pressure and less hair, and stay in the sweet area.
What method video would you advice?I have a couple of dvd's that say violin instruction dvd's but actually they are just someone playing and your suppose to eventually catch on to their tune.

Yes, I understand this can be somewhat difficult to tune into...and, that's why I suggested a methodology video...one that teaches technique through studies and exercises. Additionally, positioning is very critical...

It sounds like you're at the intermediate to pro level. It then becomes even more difficult to find good instructional videos for most are oriented to the stark beginner.

You might check with www.melbay.com to see if they may have a title that appeals to you. My video: "Introduction to the Violin and Fiddle" is oriented to the very beginner. Notwithstanding, it is a methodology video which teaches technique and proper positioning...and there are some very basic exercises that establish good form...yet, it's still a beginner to intermediate video.

So I guess I need something that is not for 3 year olds,but gives clear clean up advice for older students.

Yes, I understand. I may have to come out with a second technique video that teaches more upper level methodologies on violin. Please stay tuned on our website at:
http://www.folkofthewood.com/page645.htm

And, be sure to check out Ed Marsh's videos...he does a great job teaching more advanced techniques.

Best of luck to you, Mickey

Hope your having a nice holiday. sincerely kelly

Subject: one more fiddle question
Date: Sun, 13 Jun 2004 15:40:09 -0600

One thing I forgot, is there a book/video that I could use to help me to learn how to play the fiddle?

Kohl M. Mayberry
"They say hard work never hurt anybody, but I figure, why take the chance."- Ronald Reagan

Greetings Kohl,

There are many good videos and books available today. If you're just starting out on the fiddle, I highly recommend a good methodology video...one that lays down a solid foundation and teaches songs to reinforce the techniques illustrated.

Be sure to link below to our videos and books section...you might also check with Mel Bay at www.melbay.com

Here are some titles that we currently carry:
Violin/Fiddle Instructional Books Order Code Retail FOTW Price Further Description

Easiest Fiddling Book MB-95602BCD $14.95 $11.96 Beginning w/CD
Master Anthology of Fiddle Solos MB-98376BCD $29.95 $23.96 A Great Overview of Fiddle Styles w/CD
Beginning Fiddle Solos MB-95271CDP $17.95 $14.36 Easy Solos in Several Styles w/CD
You Can Teach Yourself Fiddling MB-94430BCD $19.95 $15.96 CD/Book Set
Theory and Scales for Violin/Fiddle MB-98057 $18.95 $15.16 Teaches a Theoretical Framework
First Lessons Violin MB-99292BCD $7.95 $6.36 CD/Book Set (28 Lessons)

Violin/Fiddle Instructional Videos Order Code Retail FOTW Price Further Description

Introduction to the Violin & Fiddle WOTW-ITTVF $39.95 $34.95 2 Hours of Violin/Fiddle Basic Techniques
Basic Irish Fiddle Video MB-95141VX $24.95 $19.96 55 Minutes Exercises and Technique Study
Country Fiddle Video MB-94939VX $29.95 $23.96 60 Minutes VHS Developing Skills
Hot Fiddle Styles MB-94942VX $29.95 $23.96 60 Minutes VHS
Basic Violin Video MB-94943VX $29.95 $23.96 60 Minutes VHS Beginning
Anyone Can Play Violin MB-94569VX $19.95 $15.96 65 Minutes VHS Beginning

Date: Mon, 29 Mar 2004 02:59:20 EST
Subject: need opinion

Hey!-

Greetings Lucas,

Glad to assist:

I have been using the "Introduction to the Fiddle and Violin" video and I have found it extreamly useful especially since I am teaching myself. I realize that this is not the way to go but I feel that I am progressing well and I am using other resources (books, cds, internet) other than the video.

That's great to hear...only, pay very close attention to the positioning taught in the video...to ensure that you develop good habits from the start...poor form and positioning will result in impediments in your playing that will hinder your progress...

I have also found a local fiddle group that I might join, but im a lil nervous about making that leap. Anyway, I was curious about a certain song book that I found on Amazon.com that has the type of music I want to play and I wanted your opinion. It seems that it is geared for the guitar but im not sure. Would it work if I tried to play these song in their format?
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0946005567/103-2481580-6912665>http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0946005567/103-2481580-6912665

I check this link out...and it goes to an Irish Pub Songbook...and, yes, this particular book adapts well to fiddling...you should have plenty of fun interpreting these pieces on fiddle...it would help to know some of these melodies...and especially to know how to read standard notation...be sure to check out our online fiddle lessons to learn more about reading sheet music:
http://www.folkofthewood.com/page3.htm

My suggestion is to acquire all the learning materials you can...and build your own library for future reference...you can't have too much instructional materials at hand...I've accumulated tons over my lifetime myself...Keep on Fiddlin', Mickey

Thanks,
Lucas McArthur