The Abc's Of Violin For The More Advanced. : Book Review

"The ABC's of Violin for the More Advanced" by Janice Tucker Rhoda is a fantastic guide for intermediate and advanced violin players who are looking to refine their technique and expand their musicality. With clear explanations and exercises that gradually increase in difficulty, this book provides a wealth of valuable information for those wanting to take their violin skills to the next level.

Rhoda starts by reinforcing the fundamentals, such as correct posture, hand position, and bow technique. By diligently covering these basics, players can ensure a strong foundation for their advanced techniques. Rhoda then delves into more complex topics, including scales, arpeggios, double stops, and harmonics, providing in-depth guidance on how to master these skills.

One of the standout features of this book is the inclusion of three supplementary CDs, which offer practice tracks for all the exercises and musical pieces. This is particularly beneficial for learners who rely on their ears, as they can hear how the different techniques should sound. Additionally, the CDs include piano accompaniments, allowing violinists to practice playing in an ensemble setting.

Rhoda's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to understand even the most intricate concepts. Drawing from her vast teaching experience, Rhoda offers numerous tips and tricks throughout the book, providing additional insights to enhance the learning process.

What makes this book truly exceptional is the diverse range of musical examples it offers. From classical pieces to folk tunes, there is something for everyone to enjoy and practice. This variety ensures that players can explore different musical styles and expand their repertoire.

What are readers saying?

"The ABC's of Violin for the More Advanced" by Janice Tucker Rhoda is a highly acclaimed violin instruction book, receiving overwhelmingly positive reviews from readers. The book is praised for its comprehensive content, helpful exercises, and clear explanations.

Reviewers appreciate the balance between challenging material and accessible instruction that Rhoda has achieved in this book. Its progressive organization allows violinists to gradually build their skills and techniques, covering advanced topics such as shifting positions, vibrato, and advanced bowing techniques. The well-designed exercises provided in the book effectively help readers improve their playing.

The clarity of explanations is another strong aspect of the book, with readers commending Rhoda's ability to convey complex concepts in a simple and understandable way. The engaging and easy-to-follow writing style makes the book suitable for self-study and as a supplement to formal violin lessons.

The inclusion of musical examples and repertoire is also praised by readers. This feature allows violinists to not only develop their technical skills but also expand their musical repertoire and appreciation. The book offers a variety of musical selections, ranging from classical to contemporary pieces, providing a well-rounded learning experience.

Furthermore, reviewers highlight the practicality of the book's content. They note that the exercises and techniques presented are applicable to a wide range of musical genres, making it a useful resource for violinists of all styles. The book also covers important topics such as intonation, dynamics, and expression, ensuring that readers develop a comprehensive understanding of violin playing.

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