The advent, or rather the evolution of the steel violin e-string over a century ago brought violinists to new heights in their playing. The stablity and thinness of a steel wire allowed for greater brilliance, intonation, and speed. However, with the…
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Why a Violin Case or Viola Case (Sometimes) Isn’t Enough
Monday, January 09, 2017There are days when I look over my monthly budget and just shake my head at just how much I spend on various kinds of insurance: Instrument insurance, car insurance, health insurance, life insurance, homeowners insurance. It’s a never ending list! As…
Easy Gift Ideas for the String Teacher or Professional! (Part 3)
Wednesday, December 14, 2016Do you want to have a gift ready for your string teacher at your first lesson after or before Christmas? Maybe you know a string player who gigs and teaches, and you want to get them something practical that they will truly enjoy, but aren't sure exactly…
Easy Gift Ideas for an Advancing String Player! (Part 2)
Tuesday, December 13, 2016Some people are difficult to shop for, and some are near impossible. If you're lucky, the person has an interest or a hobby that you'd love to support by gifting them something related. The only problem is that you might not be sure what that something…
Easy Gift Ideas for a Beginning String Player! (Part 1)
Monday, December 12, 2016Shopping for Beginning violin, viola, cello, or bass players doesn't have be as daunting as it may seem. If you are a parent, aunt or uncle, or just a friend of a beginner or someone who wants to start playing a stringed instrument, you may have noticed…
Christmas Sheet music For Strings - Part Three: Solos with Audio Accompaniment
Wednesday, November 30, 2016Let's face it, piano accompanists and ensemble-ready string players don't grow on Christmas trees. Sometimes you need to put on a show for your family, friends, classmates, or coworkers, but there is no one else to team up with for a duet or ensemble.…
Christmas Sheet Music for Strings - Part Two: Advanced String Quartets
Monday, November 21, 2016Is your string quartet booked for any holiday gigs? Do you have a group of advanced players in your orchestra that might want to showcase a quartet at the Christmas Concert? The string quartet is one of the most enduring and popular ensembles because of…
Christmas Sheet Music for Strings - Part One: Easy Flexible Ensembles
Monday, November 14, 2016Do you have sheetmusic ready for this year’s holiday celebrations? The Holiday season is a hectic time, and if you’re in charge of getting music students ready for concerts, I certainly don’t have to tell you that. I also don’t have to tell you that if…
Winter Is Coming. Is your Instrument Protected?
Monday, October 24, 2016The days are getting shorter, your heat may have already kicked in a few times, and you’re starting to look for sweaters and coats you haven’t seen in months. Winter is coming, and that means dry air that can wreak havoc on your string instrument! As…
Why You Should Start Your Child on a Franz Hoffmann
Monday, September 26, 2016Beginnings are critical, right? If you’ve ever grown a vegetable garden before, you know what I mean by this: starting right mean your garden will yield better results later on. You have to sow your seeds at the perfect time, with the right amount of…