Summer Violin Intensive
An energizing week enhancing your violin technique and artistry through an individualized approach. Join us to receive multiple private lessons and general wellness instruction with Annabelle Berthomé-Reynolds, a specialist in violin pedagogy, neuroscience, and body awareness.
Over the course of a week, this intensive will focus on technical and artistic progress while fostering awareness of violin fitness.
Each day, in a small group of four students, we will learn what our bodies need to be strong and flexible violinists. We’ll explore particular techniques for the left hand (from vibrato to harmonics and shifts) and for the right arm (weight, speed, and tone production). Then, we’ll practice sight-reading to develop the musical literacy, culture, and adaptability that every musician should acquire.
Individual daily private lessons will be a highlight of the week, presented in a master class format and observable by all. Observing other students’ work is an essential component of the learning process and will be presented in a constructive and supportive manner. Each student will also benefit from piano accompaniment, both in class and during a separate additional rehearsal, and we will conclude this wonderful experience with a recital open to all.
Sample Schedule
Each day will feature:
30-minute Individual public lesson (master class format)
15-minute Group fitness and violin-specific stretching
30-minute Group technique (left/right hand and scales & arpeggios)
15-minute Group sight-reading 90-minute Master class access
Extras:
1 of the 5 lessons will be with piano (day 3)
1 additional, separate 30-minute rehearsal with piano (day 4 or 5), to be taken off the master class time
1 recital opportunity (day 5, 7:15 PM)
Minimum Instrumental Level: Evolving in the first five positions with ease, and mastering détaché, legato and staccato. Plus, basic knowledge of spiccato and sautillé, and having also started double-stops.
Placement: In addition to the level requirement, Levine violin students should also get the recommendation of their professor or Dr. Patrick LeStrange, Chair of the String Department, to participate, with the exception of Honors and Merit students. A simple internal email will suffice. External students are invited to provide a short video of their best recent piece(s). The video must not exceed 5 minutes and be sent via WeTransfer, unlisted YouTube link or iCloud share.
Repertoire Requirement: Each student should bring at least one repertoire piece with piano (concerto, sonata, or genre piece, i.e. a virtuosic or showcase piece). Annabelle Berthomé-Reynolds will be happy to help you choose your repertoire should you be unsure which one to choose. Please get in touch with her prior to the start of the intensive.
Additional Information: Students under 12 years old should contact Annabelle Berthomé-Reynolds directly to assess their potential participation.
For all communication regarding placement (recommendation and video), repertoire requirements, and students under 12, please contact Annabelle Berthomé-Reynolds at aberthome@levinemusic.org.