About David Expertise I mainly aim to answer questions about playing techniques--intonation,
vibrato, bowing etc. I am somewhat familiar with Baroque and Classical music, though not as much with Romantic. I am unable to answer questions about advanced music theory, violin crafters/brands or the monetary value of a violin.
Experience I have played the violin about nine discontinuous years. Most of my work has been orchestral, with some soloing throughout. I was principal 2nd violinist of the Disney Honors Orchestra in 1998, a six-time All-State Orchestra violinist, a two-time assistant concertmaster and two-time concertmaster of my All-County Orchestra. I also have perfect pitch, which I believe can be learned (though I do not claim to know how to teach it).
Since starting medical school in 2004, I have had fewer chances to play, but I hope to someday resume on a regular basis.
Question I'm First chair in my high school orchestra and try to keep us together and intune. Its seems my section has a hard time staying in tune, Any Tips?
Answer Hi Jessica,
I understand this situation. The problem with school orchestras is that some musicians are far more motivated than others, and if much of a section has difficulty staying in tune, it can be hard to convince the other students to practice their parts, or get private teaching, which would be the main solutions. Unfortunately, many students in high school orchestras take orchestra as an easy elective, and not because they really want to learn.
I'm also familiar with being in the difficult position of wanting your section to get better, but not wanting to seem snobbish by bringing up that they aren't as good as they ought to be. One thing you could try would be to talk to your orchestra conductor privately, express your concerns and ask if he or she has any suggestions. It would be easier if your teacher told the section to shape up, than if you did.
I wish I had more specific suggestions. One last idea to consider is that good leaders usually lead in two ways: by inspiration, and by example. If you practice diligently and improve, you can show your section that you care about the orchestra's performance and how you as an individual contribute to it. This can be both an inspiration and a good example to your section and to the orchestra as a whole.
Best of luck in your musical endeavors!
Sincerely,
David
