Join the Fredonia School of Music string faculty from July 20-24, for a free series of online workshops and master classes designed specifically for middle and high school string students and teachers.

The online registration deadline is July 15, but classes will close when filled to capacity; register early for best selection. The online link for registration is https://forms.gle/FRKL7tYP2CpjLDXAA

Schedule of Events (with descriptions provided by participating faculty):

Monday, July 20 at 1 p.m.: Music in Motion with Jessica Tong, violin

How do we create the greatest amount of energy in the music we play, while expending the least amount of physical effort in our bodies? It might seem initially contradictory, but successfully conveying musical tension in the pieces we learn should not equate to physical tension in our bodies! In this workshop, we will begin to examine some of our existing physical habits in relation to holding and playing our instruments, as well as their effects on both musical and technical issues we often encounter as string players.

Tuesday, July 21 at 1 p.m.: Putting It into Practice with Ms. Tong

During this interactive master class session, selected students who have signed up to play will get a chance to play for the group and receive feedback. Should you wish to be considered to play in the master class session, please contact Ms. Tong at tong@fredonia.edu with your contact information and repertoire choice. Please note that due to time constraints, only three students will be able to be selected to perform; however, the class is open to all for observation!

Wednesday, July 22 at 11 a.m.: Viola for Violinists (and violists too!) with David Rose, viola

The viola does indeed burn longer than the violin, but there are more differences than this! This session is open to all violinists and violists who wish to better know the importance differences between the violin and viola. Tips for the bow arm, the left hand, and the body in general will be given and discussed. Open to string players of all ages. Players who register by Monday July 20 will receive downloadable exercises and sheets with fingerings and bowings.

Wednesday, July 22 at 1 p.m.: Bach Makes You Better with Mr. Rose

Solo Bach is required at most orchestra auditions, and many music school auditions. Bach will always be one of the most important and nourishing things we do as musicians. This session will give you tips and ideas on how to make your Bach better (and how Bach can make you better!). Open to string players of all ages.

Thursday, July 23 at 11 a.m.: Stretching, Warm-ups, Bow hold, and Shifting on the cello with Dr. Natasha Farny, cello

Lecture Demo — no instruments needed, but participants are welcome to mute themselves while stretching and playing along.

Thursday, July 23 at 1 p.m.: Know Your Cello with Dr. Farny

Know Your Cello will focus on 3 and 4-octave scale and arpeggio systems. Players who register by July 15 will receive downloadable exercises and sheets with fingerings and bowings.

Friday, July 24 at 11 a.m.: Interactive Double Bass Class with Kieran Hanlon, double bass

Open to all; double bass students ages 14 to18 are invited to perform. Request to do so by sending your name and piece to hanlon@fredonia.edu with the subject line “July 24th Performance Request.” The first three respondents will have the opportunity to present a piece in the class, but all are welcome to attend!

Friday, July 24 at 2 p.m.: “Bass-ics” Q&A Session with Mr. Hanlon

You will have the chance to write in questions and/or topics in the chat on Zoom. Suggested topics could include equipment optimization and choices, physical setup with the instrument, repertoire and methods, standing v. sitting, really anything related to the bass!