Review

Sheet music review: Open String Tunes

Helena Ruinard reviews 30 pieces for beginner violin on open strings

New to the market in 2024 is this collection of 30 pieces for the beginner violin student, each with a specially written backing-track in a variety of popular contemporary styles. The title may give the impression that these pieces are for the first lessons of the typical seven- or eight-year-old beginner, and the first 11 would certainly fit that mould, starting with pizzicato and then introducing long arco sounds, staccato and string crossing. After that, though, the pieces incorporate more sophisticated bowing techniques like hooking, together with more advanced rhythmic concepts like compound time and syncopation. Listening to the moody or edgy backing-tracks which call on gaming, epic movie and EDM styles, it becomes clear that the book is aimed more at older children and teenagers as a collection of enjoyable bowing and rhythm studies (up to Grade 2 level) which could also stand up in performance.

Register now to continue reading

Register to the Music Teacher website today to read more of the latest news and developments from the world of music education.

You’ll receive:

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here