Background
My journey as a violin teacher is both fulfilling and transformative. I have had the privilege of learning from some remarkable mentors who significantly shaped my approach to violin playing and music education. Notably, my studies at the Conservatory Utrecht The Netherlands with celebrated violinists such as Pavel Šorm (Concertmaster of the Radio Philharmonic Orchestra) and Prunella Pacey (Soloist and Principal Viola of the Royal Northern Sinfonia Orchestra) provided me with invaluable insights into both violin technique and artistry.
Prof. Pavel Šorm, known for his rigorous yet inspiring teaching methods, instilled in me the importance of discipline and practice. His emphasis on mastering the fundamentals based on the Russian Violin School allowed me to develop strong foundational skills that I now strive to pass on to my students. In addition, he taught me the Franco-Belgium and American bow hold techniques so that I would have an understanding of the different styles of violin playing. He introduced me to expressive playing and the emotional depth that the violin can convey. His teaching has profoundly influenced my style of playing, encouraging me to not only focus on technical proficiency but to become one with the instrument.
Itzhak Perlman and Ruggiero Ricci both inspired me to explore the violin even further. Over the years I have studied their way of playing and use of technique.
The old and new systems of violin playing
Ruggiero Ricci discovered that the old system of violin playing is the most efficient with the least amount of motion. This system holds the violin at a downward angle with the left hand instead of with the chin. The left hand is kept in the third position against the ribs of the violin and the hand arches backwards and forwards without shifting. All movements of the fingers are fluid and small movements are made instead of large jumps.
The modern system of playing can cause many physical problems and most violin players experience discomfort and pain at some time during their career. Incorporating the technique of the old system into the modern way of violin playing can give you mastery of the fingerboard. Paganini, who is considered the greatest violin player of all time, used the old system of violin playing. Knowing how to use both the old and new systems can enrich your playing and improve your technique. Furthermore, it can reduce the chances of discomfort and pain. Whether you play with or without a shoulder rest you should have a correct violin and bow hold, posture and mastery of the fingerboard.
"When my system will be known, artists will commence to study the nature of the violin far more thoroughly, for it is an instrument a hundred times richer that is generally supposed. My discovery is not due to sheer accident, but the result of thorough research. One day, they will come to my system of studying."
Niccolò Paganini
"There is only one scale and one position."
Niccolò Paganini
Convenient Online Learning Opportunities
In today’s fast-paced world, online learning offers unparalleled convenience, especially for those pursuing violin instruction. As a dedicated violin teacher with 40 years of experience, in addition to in-person lessons, I have embraced technology to provide students with seamless access to high-quality lessons via Zoom. This virtual learning experience allows students from various geographical locations to connect and learn, ensuring that distance is no longer a barrier to enhancing one’s musical skills.
Contact Michael to join the waiting list for private violin lessons.
Specialist assistance for students and professionals:
Next to regular violin lessons I provide assistance to address physical problems with violin playing such as: muscle blockages; cramped playing technique; painful neck, shoulder and arm muscles; injuries; discomfort with violin or bow hold etc. All sessions are 100% confidential. Click on Specialist Assistance to explore your options.
I look forward to guiding you on your violin journey!
