Course Description and Learning Outcomes: Between 1-3 hours of credit, half-hour to
an hour instruction in violin or viola per week. One credit for secondary instrument or
minors, non-majors or undeclared majors, 2-3 credits for string majors. Placement audition
required. The student will demonstrate the following:
 Knowledge of applicable solo materials
 Fundamentals of pedagogy as it pertains to applied study
 Ability to prepare and perform a solo at a high level
Required Materials:
 Instrument and bow in good-working condition; including strings and bow hair
 Sheet music as assigned must be purchased or obtained within one week of assigned
 Metronome/Tuner
 Rosin and cleaning cloth
 Notebook for use as practice journal
Course Objectives: The main purpose of the class is to help the student understand the
techniques of the applied instrument and the ways of using them effectively in practice. The
process includes self-analysis as well as searching for solutions to the technical problems
that hinder the student’s development as a musician. A better technical and musical
understanding of the instrument is an essential and ultimate goal.
The students will be covering the following fundamentals:
1. Scales and arpeggios
2. Technical studies and etudes as assigned, focusing on specific areas:
 double stops
 positions and shifting
 bowing styles: detache, martele, staccato, spiccato, ricochet, sautille
 agility and strength of left hand
 development of sound- vibrato and dynamic control
3. Standard Repertoire from all periods of music
 Musicianship (appropriate stylistic approach to each piece)
 Beauty of tone
 Accuracy in rhythm
 Accuracy in intonation
 Technique
4. Efficient Practicing
 Practice techniques