John's Violin Book , with its 55 musical pieces is one of the three pillars forming the structure and score material in primary violin education, alongside the ABC of Violin and the Violin Technique Book . The author introduces different musical styles through selected score examples, focusing on space and broadness rather than depth and strictness. This approach widens the choice of material, including well-known classical pieces and modern compositions.
A child's development and musical understanding are most natural when based on traditional music. National melodies should be introduced alongside the world's rich musical heritage. At the beginning of each chapter, there is a significant piece of art, serving as a symbol that provides a key to the essence of the following musical material, arranged in more or less chronological order (Baroque, Classicism, Romanticism, Folk music arrangements, Examples of 20th-century music)
The violin book offers an overview of the repertoire necessary for the musical technical development of the child. While 55 musical pieces may seem small compared to the world's entire musical heritage, it is sufficient to make choices based on the child's abilities and musical preferences. Depending on the child's current level of playing, the teacher can select between easier or more technically complicated scores, considering finger placement and bowing techniques.
Most scores can be played in the first position, but progressing to shift positions adds new shades to the tone color. The characters and tempos of the music pieces allow for different bowing techniques. The most important aspect for the young violinist is the joy of making music, aligned with their desires and achieved technical skills.
Special thanks to the composer Esther Mägi, a lady with good taste and attentive ear have significantly contributed to the contents of the violin book.
- Text in Estonian and English.
- Piano acc. part included.
- Published and edited by Ivi Tivik (Associate Professor Emeritus of Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre).
