The Pyramid Method
We all need to eat a balanced diet right? Just as we have adhered to the “food” pyramid for our visual of how certain macronutrients play a key part in our health, we have to adhere to a similar visual of a pyramid when studying music. This is comprised of three aspects – BODY, MIND, and SOUL.
To have a balanced education in learning an instrument it is necessary to combine all three. This establishes a solid foundation for the student to grow and learn, not only as a musician but as person who develops discipline in their practice schedules, dedication of the mind, and most importantly they are developing their creativity.
1. BODY
Establishment of a strong foundation with classical technique/posture, based on the Suzuki and Rolland Method. These methods establish the core, fundamental techniques needed to play with versatility in any genre. The Rolland method allows you to play free of tension, while incorporating movement while playing.
2. MIND
A portion of the lesson will be spent studying scales, bowing exercises, and music theory. How does the music work? What were the composers intentions when he wrote the piece?
3. SOUL
Once the student has established solid technique, we then progress towards the style of music that speaks to their soul. Maybe it’s classical, fiddle, jazz, or pop. It could also be a combination.
Even an eight-year-old will have a song they love to sing or listen to and want to learn. They get to “put” their soul into these tunes because they know “how” to. They’ve put in the hard work.
Time must be spent developing these elements, in order to be a well rounded musician. We all learn at a different pace. One element of the pyramid will be easier for one than another.
Always Remember: Never compare your current achievements to anyone else’s. We all begin at a different starting point, and there is no end to the learning of music.
How will these three elements benefit the student?
It will create a mindset for the student which will lead them into becoming a musician capable of providing musical enjoyment which goes past the typical, classical violin player. Musical tastes have dramatically changed in this decade, though many still enjoy the untouchable beauty of classical repertoire. The material I incorporate will allow the students, as future musicians to become more diversified, more creative and provide far more enjoyment for the musical scene. I will employ methods from very diverse and creative sources that will keep the student interested, alert and anxious to continue their musical training!
I also use practice challenges and a reward system in my lessons which I have seen to be extremely useful! My students are excited to come to their lesson, knowing they will be rewarded for all their hard work. One of my 6 year old students recently won the 2018 summer competition which won her a trip to the Charlotte Symphony to hear Joshua Bell!
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The Methods
The Suzuki Method: Learning music is like learning a language. Suzuki encouraged students to listen to their songs over and over. The repertoire is classically based and builds a strong foundation.
The O’Connor Method: An American School of String Playing: Learn popular fiddle tunes with Accompaniment CDs included.
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The Rolland Method: A classical technique that enables the student to acquire solid technique. It promotes movement while playing, which allows the body to be free of tension.
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Creative Strings Method: Created and developed by Christian Howes, a world famous jazz violinist, consists of an unparalleled approach and instruction in improvisation for string players of all ages.
