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Violin Class

63 episodes - English - Latest episode: 15 days ago - ★★★★★ - 73 ratings

Violin Class is a podcast for the non-professional violinist and violin enthusiast. Join me to learn what you should know about the instrument, technique tips, practicing, the repertoire, and history of the violin, from the perspective of a professional violinist and violin teacher. Hosted by Julia Reddy, www.violinclass.co; contact: [email protected]

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Episodes

7 top vibrato mistakes, explained

April 08, 2024 14:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MB

Vibrato Series 1/3.  Did you know that certain styles of vibrato can be controversial? This episodes explores the most common mistakes violinists make at every level of their playing. In this episode, you’ll learn about what issues are most prevalent when violinists are learning vibrato in beginner, intermediate, and advanced stages of their studies. Links: Vibrato Masterclass - Live online class April 13th Free vibrato ebook Accompanying blog post | video version Violin Class newsletter ...

Preparing for vibrato as a beginner

April 01, 2024 14:00 - 24 minutes - 16.7 MB

Vibrato series 2/3 Learning vibrato is such an important rite of passage when it comes to learning the violin.  It's something that every violin student strives for and something that sometimes feels impossible to learn. However, vibrato is not a beginner technique, and I completely understand the frustration when it comes to wanting to play with a beautiful sound but not having vibrato in your toolbox. Here are some things that you can start doing even as a beginner, even in your first y...

The ultimate guide to learning vibrato

March 18, 2024 19:00 - 24 minutes - 16.6 MB

Vibrato Series 1/3.  Learning vibrato is a long process, but there is a method to it. With the right guidance, a lot of practice and a whole lot of patience, you can learn vibrato and add it to your playing. In this episode, you’ll learn about: What vibrato is and how it works Arm vs. wrist vibrato The 4 stages of learning vibrato Examples of different styles of vibrato Links: Vibrato Masterclass - Live online class April 13th: Free vibrato ebook Accompanying blog post | video version ...

Practicing strategies: how to make progress when time is limited

March 04, 2024 14:00 - 25 minutes - 17.4 MB

So much to practice and so little time: I think this is a feeling that a lot of us can relate to. I'm going to show you how you can continue to progress on the violin even if you're limited by your schedule. In this episode, I discuss:  - The 2 keys to practicing with limited time - How to fit more violin practice time into your day - How to approach practicing during busy seasons of life - My 3-template practice plan system For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or viol...

An adult violin student shares her advice | Student stories: Lisa

February 19, 2024 14:00 - 55 minutes - 38.1 MB

This week, I’m sharing a conversation with my private student Lisa, who has been playing the violin for 2 years. She shares her advice for beginners and how she makes music a meaningful part of her life. Join the Violin Class newsletter for more bonus content with each new episode & violin tips: violinclass.co/newsletter Free warmups ebook: violinclass.co/warmups violinclass.co For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or [email protected]. Violin Class Website |...

How to immerse yourself in the violin world - in 7 steps

February 05, 2024 17:00 - 42 minutes - 29.5 MB

They say the best way of learning a language quickly and completely is total immersion, and the same is true for violin. In this episode, I walk you through a day-in-the-life of a conservatory student and give you ideas for creating an immersive experience of your own.  For lesson inquiries, email me at [email protected]. Join the Violin Class newsletter for extra tidbits with each episode: violinclass.co/newsletter For links and examples mentioned in this episode, see the accompan...

How to play faster on violin: a step-by-step method

January 22, 2024 17:00 - 24 minutes - 16.6 MB

I delve into nitty-gritty of playing the violin faster, and share the steps to building up speed while maintaining clarity. For lesson inquiries, email me at [email protected]. Join the Violin Class newsletter for extra tidbits with each episode: violinclass.co/newsletter For links and examples mentioned in this episode, see the accompanying blog post at violinclass.co/episodes/36 violinclass.co For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or [email protected]...

How to play faster on violin: a step-by-step guide

January 22, 2024 17:00 - 23 minutes - 15.9 MB

I delve into nitty-gritty of playing the violin faster, and share the steps to building up speed while maintaining clarity. For lesson inquiries, email me at [email protected]. Join the Violin Class newsletter for extra tidbits with each episode: violinclass.co/newsletter For links and examples mentioned in this episode, see the accompanying blog post at violinclass.co/episodes/36 violinclass.co violinclass.co

A violin teacher's advice to adult beginner violinists

January 08, 2024 19:00 - 28 minutes - 19.3 MB

I share some advice to adult violin learners who are just starting, including setting realistic goals, the importance of regular practice, choosing the right resources, when to start lessons, and the benefits of active listening.  Join the Violin Class newsletter for extra tidbits with each episode: violinclass.co/newsletter For links mentioned in this episode, see the accompanying blog post at violinclass.co/episodes/36 For lesson inquiries, you can email me at [email protected] ...

Common beginner violinist mistakes and how to fix them

July 05, 2023 11:00 - 30 minutes - 20.8 MB

I dive into some of the common mistakes I run into as a violin teacher, and some of the solutions (sometimes quick, sometimes less quick) to fix them. For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or [email protected]. Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries

Creating a musical community: The key to growing as a violinist

May 22, 2023 00:00 - 20 minutes - 14.1 MB

To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries

From beginner violinist to playing in a band | Student Stories: Jamie

May 01, 2023 14:00 - 34 minutes - 23.6 MB

This week, I’m sharing a conversation with my former student, who has been playing the violin for 3 years. We discuss how she was able to join a band and performed a live show after playing violin for a few month, and how she makes time for practice with a busy schedule. Join the Violin Class newsletter for more bonus content with each new episode & violin tips: violinclass.co/newsletter Free warmups ebook: violinclass.co/warmups Instagram: @violinclassco For lesson inquiries, contact ...

A look into my scales routine

April 17, 2023 10:00 - 28 minutes - 19.5 MB

I walk you through my routine for practicing my scales, including slow and acceleration scales, different bowing patterns, and arpeggios.  To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or [email protected]. Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries

Violin Scales 101 - Creative ideas to improve your playing

April 03, 2023 04:00 - 18 minutes - 12.6 MB

Sign up for the Creative Scales Workshop/ violinclass.co/events/scales Saturday, April 29th at 2pm (Eastern Time) Scales should be fun! In this live workshop, you'll learn:  New ideas and creative ways to practice your violin scales How to use scales to play violin more expressively   How to get a great technical workout without getting bored Hope to see you there! Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries

Jazz violin for classical players, with Matt Holborn of Jazz Violin Podcast

March 27, 2023 04:00 - 47 minutes - 33 MB

Although we mainly stick with classical violin here on Violin Class, I have a lot of jazz-curious listeners. That's why I’ve invited Matt Holborn of the Jazz Violin podcast to join me. Join the Violin Class newsletter for more bonus content with each new episode: violinclass.co/newsletter. Read the corresponding blog post, featuring the 10 jazz violinists you should listen to here. Matt Holborn is an improvising violinist based in London. He performs with The London Django Collective, Le...

The Art of Violin Repairs, with Rozie and Jerry of OMO podcast

March 13, 2023 04:00 - 45 minutes - 31.4 MB

I'm joined by  luthiers Rozie Deloach and Jerry Lynn of OMO podcast: The Romance & Reality of violin makers.  Join the Violin Class newsletter for more bonus content with each new episode: violinclass.co/newsletter Free warmups ebook: violinclass.co/warmups Where you can find team OMO: Listen to OMO podcast Learn more about Rozie and Jerry Caraway Strings JHL Violins For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or [email protected]. Violin Class Website | Instagram ...

Avoiding burnout in practicing (mini)

March 06, 2023 11:00 - 10 minutes - 7.36 MB

Four strategies for avoiding burnout when practicing the violin, including cutting down on practice time, mixing up your routine, taking short breaks, and giving yourself space. Resources mentioned: Free download: Violin Warmups: The Complete Guide for Adult Beginners Join newsletter for bonus content with each new episode Blog post: Where you can find me: Website: violinclass.co Instagram: instagram.com/violinclassco Email: [email protected] Like the show? Leave a rating or revi...

Challenges of adult beginner violinists, with Laurel Thomsen of Violin Geek

February 25, 2023 19:00 - 1 hour - 43.2 MB

To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter Check out Laurel Thomsen - The Violin Geek Podcast. For lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or [email protected]. Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries

Top mistakes beginner violinists make and how to fix them

November 25, 2022 15:00 - 25 minutes - 17.8 MB

In this episode, we’re going to look at one of the first things I want my private violin students to learn how to do— diagnosing these errors on your own and having the tools to fix them.  This is part 2/2 of troubleshooting unpleasant sounds on the violin. To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter If you want to keep this podcast running, please consider showing your support by buying me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/vi...

Is it me or my violin? Troubleshooting unpleasant sounds

October 12, 2022 17:00 - 21 minutes - 15 MB

You’re not sounding so hot in today’s violin practice session. Is it you or your violin?  To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries

The diverse careers of modern violinists, feat Eric Mrugala of Violin Podcast

September 26, 2022 14:00 - 49 minutes - 34.2 MB

I'm joined by Eric Mrugala, a violinist and host of the Violin Podcast. We’re discussing the state of the career of a modern-day violinist, how that has changed with the rise of social media, and what we think is missing in music schools to prepare violinists for the realities of modern-day violinists’ careers. You can check out our other collaborative episode on his show here: https://www.violinpodcast.com/43-julia-reddy-host-of-violin-class-podcast/ ---  To read the full show notes and ex...

The best advice from an adult violin student | Student stories: Julia

September 12, 2022 15:00 - 41 minutes - 28.7 MB

I talk to my violin student Julia, who has been playing the violin for a bit over a year and a half and is what I would consider an example of a dedicated student of violin. Julia gives her advice to others learning the violin, her perspective on overcoming all the mental hurdles that come with learning a complex skill, and how sometimes you need to step away from your goals to stay on track. Other topics we touch on is how she fits violin and classical music into her daily life, and just g...

The best advice from an adult violin student || Student stories: Julia

September 12, 2022 15:00 - 40 minutes - 27.9 MB

I talk to my violin student Julia, who has been playing the violin for a bit over a year and a half and is what I would consider an example of a dedicated student of violin. Julia gives her advice to others learning the violin, her perspective on overcoming all the mental hurdles that come with learning a complex skill, and how sometimes you need to step away from your goals to stay on track. Other topics we touch on is how she fits violin and classical music into her daily life, and just g...

How to analyze recordings to improve your playing

September 01, 2022 14:00 - 39 minutes - 26.9 MB

Active listening: a vital skill for all violinists. Learn how to source good recordings, which to avoid, whether it makes a difference to listen with video or audio, and then, the most important part, how to listen.  To read the full show notes, recordings, and bonus material, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter I’m going to walk you through this using several recordings of the same piece, and we’re going to listen and analyze them together. Lastly, you’ll hea...

The #1 thing you should be doing outside of practice

August 22, 2022 16:00 - 17 minutes - 12.1 MB

If you’re learning a piece of music, there’s one thing you really need to be doing outside of practice. Part 1/2 To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter

The #1 thing you should be doing outside of practice

August 22, 2022 16:00 - 17 minutes - 12.1 MB

If you’re learning a piece of music, there’s one thing you really need to be doing outside of practice. Part 1/2 To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries

How professional orchestra auditions work, with Evalynn Tyros

August 11, 2022 17:00 - 35 minutes - 24.7 MB

To read the full show notes and bonus content for this episode, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter In this episode, violist Evalynn Tyros gives you a behind-the-scene perspective into what only happens behind closed doors in the classical world: the audition process. Musicians give their everything in these auditions, and it’s incredibly difficult and competitive to win a job. And that’s the term we use— winning a job. Because it is every bit a competition. ...

How to organize your violin practice to optimize your productivity

July 21, 2022 11:00 - 22 minutes - 15.5 MB

Tracking your progress and progress can be a great tool to keep you motivated and organized. I will walk you through how to keep a practice journal effectively, and how to use it to keep your violin practice on track. For the full show notes, including a full example of one of my own practice plans, sign up for the newsletter at violinclass.co/newsletter Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries

Is practicing with a tuner a good idea?

July 13, 2022 19:00 - 16 minutes - 11.6 MB

To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletter We all know that intonation is one of the biggest struggles we have as violinists. Digital tuners and tuning apps seem like a cheap and easy tool that will help you improve, but it’s not so simple. Like everything, there are pros and cons to working with a tuner, and most violin teachers (myself included) generally don’t recommend them. That said, they can be a very valuable tool...

When can you learn vibrato? A violin teacher's perspective.

July 11, 2022 15:00 - 22 minutes - 15.8 MB

When should you start learning vibrato? I answer my #1 most asked question as a violin teacher. Listen to learn what I look for before starting vibrato, how long it takes to learn,  when I personally teach it, and what you can do to start preparing-- even as a beginner. For the full show notes, including my favorite vibrato explanations on the internet, vibrato examples + guided listening questions, sign up for the newsletter at violinclass.co/newsletter Violin Class Website | Instagram |...

A newbie’s guide to live classical concerts

June 22, 2022 18:00 - 29 minutes - 19.9 MB

Sign up for the Violin Class Insiders newsletter to read the full show notes, written parts of this episode, and some bonus content at  violinclass.co/newsletter New to classical music? Start here! The classical world is a bit intimidating if you're just starting out, but attending a live concert is one of the best things to go out and see if you're learning the violin. Listen to learn audience etiquette, the best places to find local concerts , what type of concerts you should see for yo...

Setting up your space for violin practice

June 13, 2022 21:00 - 22 minutes - 15.8 MB

Do you have what you need to have a successful violin practice? Listen to find out what you need to set up your space (spoiler...it's not much). In the second half, I cover some ideas and solutions for those of you who have to be mindful of your noise production (thin walls, roommates, neighbors...) Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries

What learning the violin as an adult is REALLY like- Student stories ft. Andres - VC#13

December 22, 2021 23:00 - 41 minutes - 28.7 MB

In this episode, my private student Andres shares his story of how he came into the violin 5 years ago without any previous musical experience, and how he's been able to establish a consistent practice over the years while balancing with a demanding career.  Andres shares his process and practice tips, what the violin means to him, and how he's kept on going through the challenges. He also discusses how performing has made him a better violinist, and his advice for someone who is just start...

What learning the violin as an adult is REALLY like || Student stories: Andres

December 22, 2021 23:00 - 41 minutes - 28.7 MB

In this episode, my private student Andres shares his story of how he came into the violin 5 years ago without any previous musical experience, and how he's been able to establish a consistent practice over the years while balancing with a demanding career.  Andres shares his process and practice tips, what the violin means to him, and how he's kept on going through the challenges. He also discusses how performing has made him a better violinist, and his advice for someone who is just start...

What learning the violin as an adult is REALLY like || Student stories: Andres

December 22, 2021 23:00 - 42 minutes - 29.5 MB

In this episode, my private student Andres shares his story of how he came into the violin 5 years ago without any previous musical experience, and how he's been able to establish a consistent practice over the years while balancing with a demanding career.  Andres shares his process and practice tips, what the violin means to him, and how he's kept on going through the challenges. He also discusses how performing has made him a better violinist, and his advice for someone who is just start...

Why classical violinists don't improvise: A history - VC#12

November 03, 2021 15:00 - 18 minutes - 12.7 MB

Classical violinists are expected to have the skills to play virtuosic repertoire, beautiful melodies, and sight read almost perfectly...so why can't most improvise over simple chord changes? The history is pretty fascinating! Sources:  The Decline of Improvisation in Western Art Music: An Interpretation of Change -Robin Moore https://www.jstor.org/stable/43873094?seq=1 Ferand, Ernst T. “Improvisation in Music History and Education.” Papers of the American Musicological Society, 1940, pp....

Why classical violinists don't improvise: A history

November 03, 2021 15:00 - 18 minutes - 12.7 MB

Classical violinists are expected to have the skills to play virtuosic repertoire, beautiful melodies, and sight read almost perfectly...so why can't most improvise over simple chord changes? The history is pretty fascinating! Sources:  The Decline of Improvisation in Western Art Music: An Interpretation of Change -Robin Moore https://www.jstor.org/stable/43873094?seq=1 Ferand, Ernst T. “Improvisation in Music History and Education.” Papers of the American Musicological Society, 1940, pp....

Why classical violinists don't improvise: A history

November 03, 2021 15:00 - 18 minutes - 12.7 MB

Classical violinists are expected to have the skills to play virtuosic repertoire, beautiful melodies, and sight read almost perfectly...so why can't most improvise over simple chord changes? The history is pretty fascinating! Sources:  The Decline of Improvisation in Western Art Music: An Interpretation of Change -Robin Moore https://www.jstor.org/stable/43873094?seq=1 Ferand, Ernst T. “Improvisation in Music History and Education.” Papers of the American Musicological Society, 1940, pp....

5 mistakes you're making in your violin practice

October 08, 2021 19:00 - 19 minutes - 13.5 MB

These are the top 5 mistakes that we all make when practicing violin, and some tips to correct them.

5 mistakes you're making in your violin practice - VC#11

October 08, 2021 19:00 - 19 minutes - 13.5 MB

I'm back with new episodes of Violin Class! This week I'm covering the top 5 mistakes that we all make when practicing violin. 

5 mistakes you're making in your violin practice

October 08, 2021 19:00 - 19 minutes - 13.5 MB

These are the top 5 mistakes that we all make when practicing violin, and some tips to correct them. Violin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries

The science of violin repairs, feat. luthier Ian Christian

May 25, 2021 19:00 - 46 minutes - 31.7 MB

Today we're discussing important things that you probably haven't thought to wonder about-- like how humidity and your climate affects your instrument, what you should be communicating to your luthier when getting repairs. Luthiers know way more about violins than violinists do, so you will definitely learn a lot of new things in this episode! You can find Ian Christian here: Instagram: iclutherie www.iclutherie.com  Products mentioned (not sponsored, not an affiliate links): Acurite hum...

The science of violin repairs, feat. Ian Christian - VC#10

May 25, 2021 19:00 - 45 minutes - 31 MB

Today we're discussing important things that you probably haven't thought to wonder about-- like how humidity and your climate affects your instrument, what you should be communicating to your luthier when getting repairs. Luthiers know way more about violins than violinists do, so you will definitely learn a lot of new things in this episode! You can find Ian Christian here: Instagram: iclutherie www.iclutherie.com  Products mentioned (not sponsored, not an affiliate links): Acurite hum...

Making time for violin practice as a busy person || Student stories: Olivia

April 27, 2021 16:00 - 36 minutes - 25 MB

In this episode, my private student Olivia shares her story of how she went from being a total beginner to starting a Vivaldi concerto in just 2 years, all while being a working full-time university student. Olivia shares her process, how she makes time for practicing consistently around her busy schedule, and her advice to those just starting out. She also shares how to push through plateaus in your progress, which is all violinists, both students and pros, go through. If you're just st...

Making time for violin practice as a busy person - Student stories ft. Olivia Valentini- VC#9

April 27, 2021 16:00 - 35 minutes - 24.3 MB

In this episode, my private student Olivia shares her story of how she went from being a total beginner to starting a Vivaldi concerto in just 2 years, all while being a working full-time university student.  Olivia shares her process, how she makes time for practicing consistently around her busy schedule, and her advice to those just starting out. She also shares how to push through plateaus in your progress, which is all violinists, both students and pros, go through.  If you're just st...

Transitioning from classical violin to Irish fiddle, feat. Hannah Harris

April 13, 2021 18:00 - 33 minutes - 23.2 MB

What’s the difference between a fiddle and a violin? How do you get started learning to fiddle if you come form a classical music background? What should you know going into your first Irish fiddle session?  This week’s episode of Violin Class Podcast features guest expert, fiddler, and ethnomusicologist Hannah Harris, who answers all of these questions and many more. ___________________ Hannah Harris: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChtEmvM5SUjs7MQbbWcf6qg Instagram: https:/...

Transitioning from classical violin to Irish fiddle, feat. Hannah Harris - VC#8

April 13, 2021 18:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MB

What’s the difference between a fiddle and a violin? How do you get started learning to fiddle if you come form a classical music background? What should you know going into your first Irish fiddle session?  This week’s episode of Violin Class Podcast features guest expert, fiddler, and ethnomusicologist Hannah Harris, who answers all of these questions and many more. ___________________ Hannah Harris: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChtEmvM5SUjs7MQbbWcf6qg Instagram: https:/...

Getting back into shape after a long practice break, part 2

March 23, 2021 19:00 - 12 minutes - 8.6 MB

If you've taken a long break from playing violin, don’t just jump right into playing the last thing you were practicing before you stopped. This week’s episode to learn how I get into shape efficiently and safely - including specific etudes, exercises, and strategies. But wait! This is part 2-- go listen to VC#6 first.   Etudes and exercises mentioned in this episode:  Sevcik Op 1, Bk 1: https://ks4.imslp.info/files/imglnks/usimg/c/c6/IMSLP24975-School_of_Violin_Technique_Op.1_Book1_for_...

Getting back into shape after a long practice break, part 2 - VC#7

March 23, 2021 19:00 - 12 minutes - 8.6 MB

If you've taken a long break from playing violin, don’t just jump right into playing the last thing you were practicing before you stopped. This week’s episode to learn how I get into shape efficiently and safely - including specific etudes, exercises, and strategies. But wait! This is part 2-- go listen to VC#6 first.   Etudes and exercises mentioned in this episode:  Sevcik Op 1, Bk 1: https://ks4.imslp.info/files/imglnks/usimg/c/c6/IMSLP24975-School_of_Violin_Technique_Op.1_Book1_for_...

Getting back into practicing violin after a long break, part 1 - VC#6

March 16, 2021 18:00 - 12 minutes - 8.6 MB

Sometimes, life gets in the way and you’ve stopped playing or practicing violin. You may have gone off to college, started a family, or just taken a break. Whether you’ve been away for a few months, or a few decades, there are some tips and things to keep in mind when you're ready to start up again.