Most people are spending more time and effort than is needed when practicing the violin. Learning violin skills and techniques can be easier than you might think! Whether it is playing faster, shifting confidently, developing a fine vibrato, or perfecting your spiccato, seasoned violin/viola teacher, Ruth Shilling, shares with you strategies, concepts and tips that will put you on the shortest, easiest route to your goals. And an added benefit is that these same success principles and skills can be applied to the rest of your life, too!

There are step-by-step strategies for solving difficulties as well as exercises to improve your overall technique. Lots of memorable mini-stories from the author's own experiences help you remember key concepts and principles. It is all in an easy to read format, including an index, so that you can either browse quickly through or read what you want to know in depth.


This book is for you:

- Music students of all levels, especially those playing violin, viola, cello or bass

- Parents helping your kids succeed, instilling capability and confidence with the violin as well as other skills

- Adult string players upgrading your skills and technique

- Music teachers who would like some fresh ideas

- People who desire success, ease and accomplishment in their lives


The Best Strategy is: Least Amount of Effort • Shortest Amount of Time


There are strategies and techniques for:

- Vibrato-arm, wrist, finger, desired "sound-idea"

- Rhythms & using the metronome more easily & effectively

- Improving tone, musicality and phrasing

- Three types of memorizing and ways to combine them

- Auditioning well, performing at your best

- Getting the most out of your practice time

- Playing faster and more accurately

- Shifting between positions with confidence

- and so much more!


Some of the principles and concepts included:

- Building from Success to Success

- Goals and the most direct route

- Evaluating which skill sets are needed

- Meeting challenges

- Creating desired outcomes

- Updating and upgrading

- Teachers & mentors, groups & tribes

- Entrainment and sympathetic resonance


More info at: successviolin.com