Violin

Required Materials

Instrument
If you don’t already have an instrument through a school rental program, Johnson String Instrument (based in Newtwon, MA) makes it easy to get just what you need. Watch their instrument sizing video or take a look at their sizing chart to make sure you order the correct size. There is no fee to change instrument size as you grow, and they also have a great rent-to-buy program. I rented from them for many years, and purchased my first violin from them, as well.

Sheet Music
Students are expected to purchase their own copies of major repertoire and method books, all of which can be found online. I encourage students to support Johnson String Instrument, which has a great selection of music and quick shipping times. Anything they don’t have can usually be found at Sheet Music Plus.

Shoulder Rest
I encourage all students to invest in a shoulder rest beyond the foam sponge included with your rental instrument. Playing with the right shoulder rest makes a big difference in helping students to achieve correct posture. Many students do well with the Kun shoulder rest, but there are lots options. If you don’t have one that works for you already, or have had trouble finding the correct fit, I encourage you to make a trip to Johnson String Instrument to try some out in person. It’s worth the effort!

Tuner and Metronome
Having a reliable tuner and metronome is essential. There are many phone-based apps, however for young students I find it helpful to have physical devices that can be operated independently. I have had my Seiko metronome for almost 30 years and it still works perfectly. Korg makes a great tuner. Or, you could invest in the combination metronome-tuner from Intelli.

Music Stand
Last but not least, it’s important to have a folding music stand for home practice. You don’t need anything fancy. Johnson String Instrument has lots of options.

Music

Great Marsh Music Studio utilizes the Suzuki repertoire books, but does not strictly follow that method. I believe there is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning the violin, and as such each student might use slightly different materials. During the first lesson, we will discuss your prior experience, your current method and repertoire books (if any), your goals, and your learning style to determine the best program of study. Regardless of where we start, you can expect to learn a combination of études, solo repertoire, orchestral excerpts, and duets.

Please Bring to Each Lesson

• Instrument
• Relevant music
• Pencil
• Notebook

Additional Resources

If you are looking for additional playing opportunities outside of school, or are homeschooled and looking for orchestral experience, the North Shore has exceptional youth ensembles for students of all levels. Northeast Massachusetts Youth Orchestras (or NMYO) are open to students ages 6-18 and rehearse in Boxford, MA at Masconomet Regional High School.