Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Open Access Dissertation

Department

School of Music

First Advisor

Ari Streisfeld

Abstract

Violin pedagogy has largely ignored the last century of repertoire. Students finish their training with very few of the technical or musical skills required for the successful performance of contemporary music. This document discusses why newer repertoire should be added for all students and how teachers may introduce it to the traditional program of study without excessive disruption to the existing methods of teaching. Finding appropriate repertoire can be very difficult so this document includes a series of appropriate works which encompass beginner, intermediate, and advanced ability levels. Contemporary techniques must be taught in a guided manner and each chapter discusses the skills and techniques appropriate to learn at that level. Students should then practice these techniques through the repertoire suggestions. Allowing students the chance to slowly learn and discover the full spectrum of sounds and techniques on the violin will leave them better prepared for their later careers. Extended techniques, advanced rhythmic devices, percussive effects, unusual notation, and playing with electronics may all be introduced in a guided manner below the professional level with the repertoire and exercises suggested in this document.

Rights

© 2025, Holly Workman

Included in

Music Commons

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