Violin Class
Violin Class is a podcast for non-professional violinists and violin enthusiasts. Hosted by professional violinist and teacher Julia Reddy, it covers instrument knowledge, technique tips, practicing, repertoire, and violin history. Episodes provide insights from a teacher's perspective to help listeners improve their skills and appreciation.
Episodes
Goodbye, Violin Class!
Thank you so much to all of my listeners, it's been a pleasure!Please note that I will no longer be updating the blog, social media, or newsletter, but will keep the website and podcast up for you to keep listeningSend me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
Buying a violin: a guide (and when to upgrade)
In this episode, I guide you through the process of buying and upgrading your violin, from factory-made models to handcrafted luthier instruments.I’ll share tips on when to upgrade your violin, what to listen for when choosing one, and where to start your research.Accompanying blog postViolin Class newsletterFor private lesson inquiries, contact me at violinclass.co/contact or violinclasspod@gmail
3 effective ways to end your violin practice
I've talked a lot about violin warmups and technique exercises that you should be doing at the beginning of your practice session, but it’s just as important to look at how to end our practice.The way we end our practice session sets up the beginning of the next day’s work, and ideally we end wanting to go on and not in a mountain of frustration (although that happens, too!)Here’s my suggesti
How professionals practice, with Davina Shum of the Strad
I’m joined by cellist and online editor of the Strad, Davina Shum. We discuss practicing, careers in classical music, and practical tips for adult learners.Full blog postthe Strad PodcastArticles by Davina:Why don't string players practice pizzicato The importance and difficulty of playing softlyA case for deppingSend me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
6 violin techniques you should practice every day
In my 15 years of teaching violin, I’ve noticed a topic that is confusing for a lot of adult learners: how to structure their technique and warmup practice.In this blog post, I wanted to discuss six things that I think that every violinist should be practicing in some form at every practice session— some of these will be more geared towards intermediate to advanced players, but most will apply to
On practicing smarter and violin vs. viola, with Liz and Steph from MusicianCentric
I’m joined violists Liz & Steph, the hosts of MusicianCentric Podcast. They share new research on how to practice smarter and the differences between viola and violin.Listen to MusicianCentric podcast hereMolly Gebrian episode / Susanna Klein episode--- Full blog post and transcriptFree violin warmups guideJoin the Violin Class newsletterSend me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram |
Making time for violin in a busy season of life | Student Stories: Carly
I’m sharing an interview with my private student, Carly. Carly started the violin in her late 20s and has made fast progress in the 2 years that we have been working together.She discusses how she’s been able to progress without having a ton of time to practice— in addition to learning violin, Carly is busy raising and homeschooling 4 young children.Send me a text messageViolin Class Website | In
Posture and body awareness for adult learners, with Rachael Ridge
Joining me on Violin Class this week is violin teacher Rachael Ridge, with whom I’ll be discussing:Body awarenessHow to relax and release tension as an adult learner.The importance of singingProper posture on violinAs well as her own journey with arthritis and how she’s been able to practice to avoid pain.Send me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
7 top vibrato mistakes, explained
Vibrato Series 3/3. 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 Apr
Preparing for vibrato as a beginner
Vibrato series 2/3Learning 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
The ultimate guide to learning vibrato
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 worksArm vs. wrist vibratoThe 4 stages of learning vibratoExamples of different styles of vibratoLinks:Vibrato Masterclass - Live o
Practicing strategies: how to make progress when time is limited
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- M
An adult violin student shares her advice | Student stories: Lisa
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/newsletterFree warmups ebook:violinclass.co/warmupsviolinclass.coSend me a text messag
How to immerse yourself in the violin world - in 7 steps
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 violinclasspod@gmail.com.Join the Violin Class newsletter for extra tidbits with each episode:vi
How to play faster on violin: a step-by-step method
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 violinclasspod@gmail.com.Join the Violin Class newsletter for extra tidbits with each episode:violinclass.co/newsletterFor links and examples mentioned in this episode, see the accompanying blog post at violinclass.co/episodes/36violinclass.co
A violin teacher's advice to adult beginner violinists
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/newsletterFor links mentioned in this episode, see the accompanying blog post at violi
Common beginner violinist mistakes and how to fix them
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.Send me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
Creating a musical community: The key to growing as a violinist
To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here:violinclass.co/newsletterSend me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
From beginner violinist to playing in a band | Student Stories: Jamie
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/newsletterFree wa
A look into my scales routine
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/newsletterSend me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
Violin Scales 101 - Creative ideas to improve your playing
Sign up for the Creative Scales Workshop/violinclass.co/events/scalesSaturday, 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 scalesHow to use scales to play violin more expressively How to get a great technical workout without getting boredHope to see you there!Send me a text messageViolin Class W
Jazz violin for classical players, with Matt Holborn of Jazz Violin Podcast
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
The Art of Violin Repairs, with Rozie and Jerry of OMO podcast
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/newsletterFree warmups ebook: violinclass.co/warmupsWhere you can find team OMO:Listen to OMO podcastLearn more about Rozie and JerryCaraway Strings JHL ViolinsSend me a text messageViolin
Avoiding burnout in practicing (mini)
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 BeginnersJoin newsletter for bonus content with each new episodeBlog post:Where you can find me:Website: violinclass.coInstagram: instagram.com
Challenges of adult beginner violinists, with Laurel Thomsen of Violin Geek
To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here:violinclass.co/newsletterCheck out Laurel Thomsen - The Violin Geek Podcast.Send me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
Top mistakes beginner violinists make and how to fix them
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/newsletterIf you want to keep this podcast r
Is it me or my violin? Troubleshooting unpleasant sounds
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/newsletterSend me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
The diverse careers of modern violinists, feat Eric Mrugala of Violin Podcast
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.vi
The best advice from an adult violin student | Student stories: Julia
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
How to analyze recordings to improve your playing
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/newsletterI’m going to walk you through this using several recordings
The #1 thing you should be doing outside of practice
If you’re learning a piece of music, there’s one thing you really need to be doing outside of practice. Part 1/2To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletterSend me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
How professional orchestra auditions work, with Evalynn Tyros
To read the full show notes and bonus content for this episode, join the Violin Class newsletter here:violinclass.co/newsletterIn 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
How to organize your violin practice to optimize your productivity
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/newsletterSend me a text messageViolin Class Website | I
Is practicing with a tuner a good idea?
To read the full show notes and extra tidbits, join the Violin Class newsletter here: violinclass.co/newsletterWe 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 (
When can you learn vibrato? A violin teacher's perspective.
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,
A newbie’s guide to live classical concerts
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/newsletterNew 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 audi
Setting up your space for violin practice
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...)Send me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
What learning the violin as an adult is REALLY like || Student stories: Andres
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 als
Why classical violinists don't improvise: A history
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 Moorehttps://www.jstor.org/stable/43873094?seq=1Ferand, Ernst T. “Improvis
5 mistakes you're making in your violin practice
These are the top 5 mistakes that we all make when practicing violin, and some tips to correct them.Send me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
The science of violin repairs, feat. luthier Ian Christian
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: ic
Making time for violin practice as a busy person || Student stories: Olivia
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 y
Transitioning from classical violin to Irish fiddle, feat. Hannah Harris
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:
Getting back into shape after a long practice break, part 2
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://
Getting back into practicing violin after a long break, part 1
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.Send me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
Classical Violin Repertoire: the listening guide to classical violin music
In this episode I will be going over some of the types of pieces in the classical violin repertoire, including some pieces you should listen to and familiarize yourself with. There are many, many pieces written for the violin, so if you have a new interest for the classical violin world it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start. The goal of this episode is to help give you some backgroun
Violin maintenance- how to take care of your violin
Everything you should know about taking care of your instrument - all your questions answered! When should you change strings, when should you visit the luthier, can you keep your violin on the wall, do you need a humidifier, and many more tips. Send me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
What you need to know before buying a violin
Things you should be aware of to help you prepare to buy an instrument.Online retailer mentioned:https://www.sharmusic.com/If you have any suggestions for a future episode, or just want to say hi, you can write to me at violinclasspod@gmail.com.Instagram:Podcast: @violinclasspodMe: @juliareddymusicSend me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
7 tips to get the most out of your violin lessons
If you're taking violin lessons with a private teacher, here are 7 things you should be doing to get the most out of your classes.If you have any suggestions for a future episode, or just want to say hi, you and write to me at learnviolinpodcast@gmail.com. Instagram:Podcast: @violinclasspodMe: @juliareddymusicSend me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
Seven advantages adults have over kids when it comes to learning violin
In this episode, I go over the seven reasons why it's easier to learn the violin as an adult than as a kid. I also go over the advantages that kids have when learning an instrument, and how we can apply that to our learning. Have an idea for a future episode? Write to me here: violinclasspod@gmail.comSend me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
Introduction
Introducing Violin Class, a podcast for the non-professional violinist. Here I cover a bit of background on what will be discussed in upcoming episodes. Send me a text messageViolin Class Website | Instagram | Lesson inquiries
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