The Power and Pride of Working For Something of Value… Have you ever seen a child swing their bow wildly through the air? Or dig their bow tip in the carpet? Have you seen a child set their violin down precariously close to the edge of a table or chair? Drop their violin? Or WORSE? Why […]
For Suzuki Parents
Ten Benefits of Listening to the Suzuki Recordings
Is your Suzuki Student Progressing Slowly? More Listening Could be the Answer! Occasionally, I will have a student that progresses through the Suzuki repertoire very quickly. Each piece comes easily, almost effortlessly. Are these students just more talented? Did they practice more than the others? My hypothesis is, while these students did practice consistently, they […]
To Bribe or Not to Bribe? How Pro Suzuki Parents Motivate Their Kids to Practice
How Pro Suzuki Parents Get Their Kids to Practice Part III The question of whether or not to “bribe” children to practice is a controversial one. Those against a “bribe,” or as I prefer, a reward system, argue that we should encourage intrinsic motivation, helping our children to be self-motivated. Inspired and moved to practice […]
How do I Find the Time to Practice with my Suzuki Student?
How Pro Suzuki Parents Get Their Kids to Practice: Part II This post is the second in a series of posts where I share the results of my research into how some parents actually make practicing happen. Part I was all about making practicing with your Suzuki student a part of your daily routine, you […]
7 Youtube Videos of Spooky Violin Pieces–Perfect for Halloween!
Halloween is almost upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with scary, spooky classical music? There’s lots of lists out there of scary music, mostly symphonic favorites, so I decided to round up a list of spooky violin pieces (solo.) These pieces would be perfect to share with your students. They are all […]
Suzuki Violin Method: How Pro Suzuki Parents Get Their Kids to Practice: Part I
To get the most out of the Suzuki Violin Method, check out what these parents are doing… The Suzuki Violin Method requires a huge commitment from parents, students, and teachers. We teachers are always struggling to get our students to practice, and to teach them how to practice properly. Parents are always struggling to fit it […]
5 Fun and Easy Violin Practice Games
5 Fun and Easy Violin Practice Games How to Avoid Music Practice Battles with Your Kids Guest Post by McKenzie Clawson Practicing sometimes feels like a dirty word. When I bring up the subject of practicing with my students they look away, shuffle their feet, and try to avoid the question. (Does this sound familiar?) […]
The Three Qualities You Should Look For in a Violin Teacher
Picking a violin teacher is no easy task. You want to find someone that you work well with, and that explains things in a way that you can understand. Not to mention, you need to find someone who knows what they are doing! I’ve had some fantastic teachers. Really lovely, wonderful, talented, and skilled teachers. […]
5 Great Books for Music Students
One way to increase engagement and motivation in your studio is to connect your music students with a good book. A good book can transport us to another place and time, engage our minds, and fill our hearts. If you are looking for captivating books for music students, look no further! I have always loved […]
How to Boost Your Practice Time Productivity
Use this simple tool to keep yourself accountable and motivated to get things done! Image Credit Sometimes I have a hard time concentrating when I practice. A really hard time. I generally have issues concentrating, and those are exacerbated when I sit down to practice violin efficiently. (It truly is a miracle I’ve made it […]