Help learning fiddle

Subject: RE: Help learning fiddle
From: GUEST,Tunesmith
Date: 27 Nov 04 - 10:42 AM

Surely, many of the very impressive young fiddlers emerging today from the British Isles have a classical background. For example, Kate Rusby's mate ( totally forgotten his name! ), and that chap in Malinky.

Subject: RE: Help learning fiddle
From: The Borchester Echo
Date: 27 Nov 04 - 09:05 AM

Oh, I do agree with you, Russ, in my own experience. I was just pointing out that some very experienced fiddle teachers (Scottish and English style) have told me not to get too worried about it.

Laugh might find this online tutor useful.

Subject: RE: Help learning fiddle
From: GUEST,Russ
Date: 27 Nov 04 - 08:46 AM

OOPS!

After reading Countess Richard's response I realized that I had made an UNWARRANTED ASSUMPTION.

My remarks apply only to traditional fiddling of the American southern mountains (aka "old time fiddling"). That is the only fiddling with which I have significant experience.

It's not just me. My remarks voice a common perception among old time musicians. My old time fiddling friends who began with classical training will be the first to admit that it took forever for them to overcome it.

OF COURSE a VIOLIN teacher will push classical training. It's their job. Might as well ask a tuba player about the best way to learn the banjo.

Subject: RE: Help learning fiddle
From: The Borchester Echo
Date: 27 Nov 04 - 08:32 AM

it will take you forever to stop sounding like a fiddler with classical training

Well, I certainly still do but I put that down to lack of practice. I know several very fine fiddlers who began with classical training who also teach. In workshops they maintain that the only real difference is in bowing technique (and, obviously, how you hold it).

I couldn't recommend more highly workshops run by the Wren Trust but If you can say where you are, I'm sure someone will be able to suggest a good fiddle teacher local to you.

Subject: RE: Help learning fiddle
From: GUEST,Russ
Date: 27 Nov 04 - 08:15 AM

Do NOT try to learn to play fiddle from a violin teacher.

You and your teacher will simply annoy and frustrate each other.

See
"Twelve questions violinists ask about fiddling"
http://www.dhebert.com/publications/fiddleFAQ.html

Do NOT ask a violin teacher whether you should study fiddle with a violin teacher. Ask a fiddler. Ask someone who is now where you want to be.

No matter what benefits might derive from studying violin, if you want to play fiddle, CUT TO THE CHASE.

If you BEGIN with violin, it will take you forever to stop sounding like a fiddler with classical training. Know 'em. Play with 'em.

Subject: Lyr Add: hlep learning fiddle
From: laugh
Date: 27 Nov 04 - 12:49 AM

HI out there :) I am new to learning the fiddle. Just started about a month and a half ago. My teacher is a music teacher and does not actually PLAY the fiddle. I am a little frustrated with learning the correct way to use the bow. I was watching some fiddlers paly and they seem to have their wrist arched? Is there any exercises that can help me with this and also some exercises with learning how to get my fingers moving better? I very much enjoy playing the fiddle I practice for an hour and a half a day or more. I just can't seem to put it down!! I am very excited that I found this site!!!! any information you have would be useful I am sure!
Thanks in advance!!
Laugh :)