Beginner Violin

"First Lessons Violin" by Craig Duncan

(Book/CD Set)

Rhiannon's favourite book to start a new violinist in lessons.

A great book for the beginner violinist who wants to play the classics. The 28 lessons include basic technique and reading skills, scales in the keys of A, D, G, and C as well as bowing techniques such as dynamic contrast, slurs, accents, and staccato bowing.

There are 47 melodies presented including works by Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Handel, Mozart and other classical composers. The companion CD features all of the exercises and pieces recorded with solo violin and piano accompaniment.

BEST SELLER • Beginning • 32pp • Retail $9.95

"All For Strings - Violin" by Robert Frost and Gerald Anderson

(Book Series)

These books are used for all new students at Fiddleheads Violin School and are Rhiannon's personal favourites for beginners.

All For Strings is a complete curriculum which covers virtually every aspect of beginning through intermediate string study, emphasizing technical skills, rhythmic understanding, and quality musical experiences.

Book 1 provides a well-rounded course of study for all beginning string students. It begins with "Starting by Rote" and "Starting by Note" approaches to music reading. Photos, diagrams, and logos intergrated throughout the book reinforce all new concepts introduced. Carefully selected and composed technical materials and musical selections provide excellent opportunities for learning and growth. Rhythm exercises and theory games are also provided, as well as duets, trios, and ensembles.

Book 2 devotes many exercises and musical selections to the development of major and minor left hand finger patterns for all string players. Introducing new bowing styles and more advanced rhythm patterns. As in Book 1, a great variety of solos, duets, trios. and ensembles are included - perfect for performance!

We also sell Theory Workbook 1 - Theory Workbook 2

BEST SELLERS • Beginning

Retail $5.50 USD

*You may also be interested in this beginner fiddle book

Classical Violin

"J.S. Bach Duets for Two Violins" by Peggy Spencer & Sue Engle

(Book)

Fifty-plus themes and excerpts from the standard classical violin solo, symphonic and chamber literature, arranged for two violins with chords. For players desiring short recital vignettes, repertoire for casual engagements, or simply an introduction to the genre. Most numbers can be played by solo violin.

Intermediate • 52pp • Retail $12.99

"Violin Duet Classics Made Playable" by Mary Ann Harbar

(Book/CD)

Fifty-plus themes and excerpts from the standard classical violin solo, symphonic and chamber literature, arranged for two violins with chords. For players desiring short recital vignettes, repertoire for casual engagements, or simply an introduction to the genre. Most numbers can be played by solo violin.

Beginning-Int • 128pp • Retail $22.95

"Tunes for Three- Violin " by Keith Stent

(Book)

Tunes for Three is an imaginative and entertaining way of introducing violin ensemble playing for all ages. Keith Stent's arrangements of 18 well-known classic melodies ensure that the interest is spread across all three parts and often everybody gets to have a go at the tune.

Beginning-Int • 48pp • Retail $13.50 USD

"Royal Conservatory Violin Series: Third Edition " by various composers

(Book, violin part & piano score)

A comprehensive collection of works, carefully selected and edited to reflect a broad range of composers and styles. This third edition, just released this Spring, includes pieces not published in this series before.

Includes piano and violin parts (2 mini books per grade). Grades Intro to 8. Complete piece listing and details, click here.

"Royal Sequence" CD Set

The much anticipated audio recordings of the "Violin Series" Introductory Level to Grade 5 Repertoire. To be used with the Royal Conservatory Violin Series (see above).

Featuring a performance and practice (piano only) track for each piece! Available for purchase via our site.

Fiddle

"You Can Teach Yourself Fiddling" by Craig Duncan

(Book/CD Set)

This book, used in our Fiddleheads Ensemble classes, presents 36 lessons on basic techniques by applying them to fiddle tunes.

Lessons are explained step by step and fingerings are given for every note. Each version builds on the previous one and helps students to create their own arrangements. Includes a split- track CD. Forty-eight songs from the book are on the CD.

BEST SELLER • Beginning to Int • 80pp • Retail $19.95 USD

Favorite American *** for Fiddle Series by Stacey Phillips

(Books)

* Rags and Blues

A meticulous collection of recordings, square and contra dances, fiddle contests, jam sessions and individual fiddlers, providing a snapshot of what American fiddlers were playing and listening to in the latter part of the 20th Century.

Beginning to Int • 72pp • Retail $12.95 USD

* Hornpipes

Over 100 classic and lesser-known fiddle tunes in hornpipe style from all parts of the USA, some with multiple versions. Classical players, these short pieces will solidify scales and arpeggios and can serve as effective and fun exercises for all violin students, not just fiddlers.

Beginning to Int • 64pp • Retail $12.95 USD

* Polkas and Jigs

Over 100 tunes transcribed from the playing of some of the greatest traditional fiddlers of the past and present including Benny Thomasson, Bob Walters, Howdy Forrester, James Bryan, Rodney Miller, Ruthie Dornfeld, and many more.

Beginning to Int • 64pp • Retail $12.95 USD

"The Violinist's Guide to Fiddling" by Mark Weeg

(Book)

Not your typical fiddle-tune book, these tunes range from variations of regular tunes to obscure Scottish polkas, classical duets, gypsy fiddle tunes, Cajun tunes and even two or three original tunes, with many in third and fifth position. Uncompromising care was taken in the transcription of these pieces, and virtually nothing was simplified.

There are several classical piano pieces trimmed down to violin solos and duets, Americana, and even the author’s own variations on “Carnival of Venice.” Included is an extensive section on playing back-up fiddle to another instrument, dwelling on chord patterns, double-stops, bowing patterns, “shuffles,” and all manner of accompaniment, and all fiddle tunes have chord symbols included.

Beginning-Int • 88pp • Retail $14.95 USD - OUT OF STOCK

"Mel Bay's Fiddle Pocketbook"

(Small Book)

This cute and handy pocket-sized instructional book which contains a wealth of information on chords, songs, and playing techniques. A tremendous value for the price and can be kept as a daily practice guide and reference manual.

Great for stocking stuffers, student gifts or as a small token of appreciation.

Beginning • 32pp • Fiddleheads Violins Price $1.25 USD

Blues & Improvisation

"Blues Violin for the Young Beginner" by Marty Laster

(Book/CD Set)

This is Rhiannon's favourite fun book to introduce to her students of all ages.

Not just for kids, this book introduces players to bluesy violin techniques in a ground-breaking way that is both structured and fun.

As the author said to Fiddleheads.ca in correspondence, "I enjoyed your web site and believe we are kindred spirits as far as an eclectic individualized approach to teaching. And yes, children learn best when enjoying themselves. I am thrilled to see my book on your web site..."

In this book you will learn to slide the fingers using exercises and original composition that move from simple to intermediate levels. Blue notes are explored as well as blues bowings. Suitable for adults as well and a real blast to play.

Includes play-along CD.

Beginning-Int • 32pp • Retail $14.95 USD

Technique & Theory

"Sensible Scales Plus! for Violin and Fiddle" by Julianna Waller (Book)

Each skill section in this excellent resource for beginning, intermediate, and advanced players is concise, easy to understand, and provides an effective and meaningful approach to learning one-, two-, and three-octave scales plus more. Presentation of scales and arpeggios include excellent fingerings and an emphasis on bowing and rhythmic variations.

Beginners are supported with rote and music notation as well as specific goals to accomplish. One special feature is an intense focus on the development of the intermediate player through two-octave scales, arpeggios, and chord progression arpeggios!

These studies increase knowledge of music theory, promote chord recognition, and are especially valuable for those learning improvisation. Advanced players will be challenged by three-octave major and minor scales presented in increasing rhythmic values. Finally, scales in sixths and thirds are offered for continued study and development of double stops.

Discover a deep appreciation for getting the most out of scales!

Beg-Advanced • 128pp • Retail $14.99 USD

Third Position Easy and Melodic Violin Etudes" by Stephanie Hack Swoveland

(Book)

The purpose of this book is to provide students with an enjoyable, fast pace, and effective means of learning the third position. Visually, enlarged staves and notes make technical difficulties easier. Scale finger pattern diagrams show clear finger placement. The melodies included are simple and easy to remember, encouraging learning by ear.

Technically, shifts are limited, repetitive, and systematic. Ideal for any violin student. A great supplement to Suzuki curriculum.

Beginner • 28pp • Retail $5.95 USD

"Concept and Study for the Violinist: The Lobko Method" by Mikhail Lobko

(Book)

Whatever your skill level, if you are devoted to the noble art of playing the violin, this course is sure to enhance your technique. The Lobko Method will increase your understanding of playing throughout the fingerboard in the most rational and comfortable way, facilitating the discovery of technical solutions even while sight reading.

The method’s progressive approach, brief yet comprehensive, will enable you to examine and revise the very way you handle a violin and bow. The roots of great success or unexplainable failure often lie in simple technical errors that have become habits.

To help you correct these habits, brilliant technical concepts gleaned from various books by the best violin teachers of the past are brought together here in simple, easy to follow formulas.

All Levels • 80pp • Retail $14.95 USD

"Shifting: 30 Studies for Young Violinists" by Yaakov Geringas

(Book)

This Royal Conservatory approved technical study album introduces shifting gradually and easily. Students overcome the problems of string crossing and shifting to produce a smoother sound and greater variety of tone colours. Descriptive titles combined with imaginative drawings make shifting fun for young players.

An essential book for music students of all ages.

Beginner -Adv • Retail $7.95 USD - OUT OF STOCK

"All For Strings - Violin Theory Workbooks" by Robert Frost and Gerald Anderson

(Book Series)

These books are used for all new students at Fiddleheads Violin School and are Rhiannon's personal favourites for beginners.

All For Strings is a complete curriculum which covers virtually every aspect of beginning through intermediate string study, emphasizing technical skills, rhythmic understanding, and quality musical experiences.

Theory Workbooks 1 and 2 are correlated with the All for Strings method books and are suitable for classroom or individual use. Each page features exercises and games which encompass music fundamentals introduced in the method books.

Students start by learning the piano keyboard to increase their understanding of the intervals. They also work with fingering chart exercises so that basic theory can be immediately applied to their instrument. In addition to drawing clefs, notes, key and time signatures, students learn about musical phrases and begin composing. Puzzles and musical math games are also included.

We sell the violin books: Method Book 1 - Method Book 2 - Theory Workbook 1 - Theory Workbook 2

BEST SELLERS • Beginning • Retail $4.50 USD each

Christmas Carols

"My Very Best Christmas" arranged and edited by  Karen Khanagov

Violin Edition - Viola Edition

(Book/CD Set)

The seventeen Christmas songs in this volume, arranged in comfortable keys, can be used for players at different levels and for all kinds of occasions.

All editions (Violin, Viola, etc) include two parts for either solo or duet performance and piano accompaniment. The books are all compatible so that ensembles may mix and match parts as desired. Suzuki groups may particularly enjoy these arrangements.

The CD provides the piano accompaniments alone. It can be used for back-up, improvisatory play-along, or for pleasant listening by itself.

Beginning-Int • 88pp • Retail $19.95 USD

"The Ultimate Christmas Fakebook" by Hal Leonard

(Plastic Comb Bound Book)

The 4th edition of this bestselling fake book has been updated to now include 275 traditional and contemporary Christmas songs!

The Ultimate Christmas Fake Book includes the melody line, lyrics and chords for these holiday songs:

All Through the Night; Away in a Manger; The Chipmunk Song; The Christmas Shoes; The Christmas Song; Deck the Hall; Do You Hear What I Hear; Feliz Navidad; Frosty the Snow Man; Fum, Fum, Fum; Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer; Happy Holiday; A Holly Jolly Christmas; I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day; I'll Be Home for Christmas; Jingle-Bell Rock; Jingle Bells; Joy to the World; Little Saint Nick; Merry Christmas, Darling; Nuttin' for Christmas; Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer; Silent Night; Silver Bells; Toyland; Up on the Housetop; What Child Is This?; Who Would Imagine a King; Wonderful Christmastime; and MANY more.

Beginning-Int • 160pp • Retail $24.95

"A Fiddling Christmas" by Craig Duncan

(Violin Part / Piano Part)

Tired of the usual Christmas tunes? This book contains many types of Christmas and holiday tunes from a wide variety of sources.

Each tune has suggested bowings, guitar chords, an optional harmony part and a piano accompaniment along with information on the origin of the tune.

BEST SELLER • Beg-Intermediate • 108pp • Retail $14.95 - OUT OF STOCK