Group classes are required for all students, and are an essential part of a complete violin curriculum. The students love the camaraderie of group class, the chance to build leadership skills, and the opportunity to play music in diverse musical styles (repertoire has included Crazy Train, Paranoid, and Jethro Tull). It is clear to parents the dramatic difference group class makes in building their child’s confidence, knowledge, and love of music making.

Group class assignments

All group classes meet 2-3 times per month. For group times and schedule, please see the Calendar page.

Orff Group. Beginners in the pre-violin phase. Topics include ear training, steady beat, musical notation, coordinating rhythms, bowhold, and posture.

Amati Group. Beginners who are playing with the violin and bow. Topics include posture and tone concepts, unison ensemble, stage presence, and technique.

Vuillaume Group. Intermediate-level students (Books 2-3) who are able to read printed music. Topics include leadership, articulation, tone development, scales, vibrato, critical thinking, stage presence, and by-ear playing.

Guarnerius Group. Late-intermediate students (Books 4-7). Topics include leadership, tone development, practice strategies, technique, stage presence, and musical expression.

Stradivarius Group. Advanced students playing concerto-level literature. Topics include tone development, practice strategies, advanced technique, stylistic elements, and audition preparation.