The Studio of Travis Maril

Resources

Learning the Violin or Viola

Video

String Pedagogy: This is the single best DVD/website on string teaching I've come accoss. Ms. Zweig is an inspirational teacher, and she breaks down her method for expressive, physically free playing step by step, starting with a student's first lesson and proceeding methodically all the way to advanced repertoire. Highly Recommended!!!

Violin Masterclass: An excellent collection of short videos on technique from Kurt Sassmannhaus, Professor of Violin at the Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music.

Cello Bello: Former cellist of the Cleveland Quartet and professor at the New England Conservatory, Paul Katz's site focusses on the cello, but nearly all of his lessons are applicable to all string players.

Youtube Favorites

Here are some of my favorite violin and viola performances from Youtube. Hit the fast forward button to skip between clips.

Books

Basics by Simon Fischer: A great book with exercises on almost every aspect of technique by Simon Fischer. I use many of his exercises in my own teaching and consistently have "aha!" moments when revisiting it.

Principles of Violin Playing and Teaching by Ivan Galamian: Galamian was one of America's greatest violin teachers, with students including Itzhak Perlman, Pinchas Zukerman and Michael Rabin. This classic treatise on violin playing is a favorite!

Art of Violin Playing by Carl Flesch: A little dated, but still a fascinating book on violin playing from one of its great pedagogues.

Casals and the Art of Interpretation: A fascinating glimpse into the mind of a genius. Casals, one of the greatest cellists who ever lived, shares his insights into the art of musical interpretation.

The Art of Practicing: A Guide to Making Music from the Heart: A wholistic approach to practicing and making music. Features a few pictures of my old teacher, Karen Ritscher!

Method Books

Essential Elements for Violin, Book 1 and Viola Book 1: I require these books for my beginner students.

Suzuki Violin School Volume 1 and Viola School Volume 1: Also required for my beginning students.

Accessories

Intelli Metronome & Tuner: A good value for a combination metronome/tuner. Loud!