AboutDavid 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.
Expert: David Date: 12/28/2007 Subject: Violin Intonation
Question Of all the research I've done, I have yet to find strategies to "fix" my intonation. Maybe you could shed some light on how I might be able to do this? Right now, I spend a half hour+ practicing my scales slowly, first with an electric tuner, then without. Is there another way to improve? I don't have a private lessons teacher at this time, but my school has an orchestra program that I am enrolled in.
Answer Hi Sabrina,
I'm happy to hear that you are working diligently on your intonation, which I think every string player would agree is key. What you are doing is a great approach--make sure that you have set your tuner to tell you how close to the real pitches your individual notes are. (You probably did that already.) I think getting a private teacher is extremely important for a musician wanting to improve, as the one on one attention and guidance is very helpful. Of course I can understand if you have time or financial constraints that preclude that at this time. I'm glad you are also in your school's orchestra and encourage you to stay in it, providing that you feel you are learning and it is not holding you back. Another important component of musical improvement in my opinion is taking time to listen to professional solo recordings to get a feel for style and also intonation. I think Hilary Hahn is an excellent artist to listen to; she has a number of unaccompanied recordings available and they would allow you to hear the notes without the distraction of other instruments. You might also consider checking out some of the Suzuki violin recordings, which come at various levels and would help you with intonation as well. Keep it up, you'll feel so rewarded when it becomes even more clear. I hope this is of some help, my best wishes for all your musical endeavors!
Sincerely, David
