About me

Why learn Trad

Fiddle?

Classical Music

Details & Cost

On Reading Music

Buying Fiddles

I am based in Sheffield and teach traditional fiddle and beginners classical violin, to both adults and children. I am happy to tailor what I teach to what you want to learn, or give general tuition in fiddle playing as a whole.

E-mail- fiddletuition@josielessons.co.uk

0114 2342112

Walkley, Sheffield

About me

I have been playing the instrument for 24 years. I was classically trained as a child to grade eight standard and took up traditional fiddle as a young teenager. I have since been studying and playing music from the Irish, Scottish, Shetland, English, Welsh, Klezmer and some European traditions. I have played in many bands and ensembles for dance and performance, and am currently playing Klezmer with Minnie Moosika, Welsh and English music with Cat and Ceri Ashton, and British music with the ceilidh band Gallivant. I have taught both children and adults and I have also extensive teaching experience in areas other than music.

Why play traditional fiddle?

One of the wonderful things about playing traditional music is it encourages you quickly to build a direct and intimate relationship to music and to the instrument. The repetitive nature of the tunes makes it perfect for playing with and exploring, improvising around, and generally having fun! It is a great way to enjoy playing music, whatever level you are. Although you can go on learning forever, from the beginning you can get into the music, play with other people and start to explore your own musical self and creativity.

Classical Music

The basic technique of classical violin and traditional fiddle is similar, but with a difference in emphasis. As it is similar enough to be transferable, it won't be a problem if you want to start with traditional fiddle and then switch. As I was classically trained myself I am happy to teach classical violin to beginners, or a bit of both classical and traditional playing. However if you are a more advanced classical player you would obviously be better to find a teacher who specialises in classical playing.

Details and Cost

I charge £15 for a 45 minute lesson. I think it is useful especially at the beginning, to have a lesson every week, but if you would like to have less (or more!) that's absolutely fine. I do not ask you to make a commitment, but work on a lesson by lesson basis. If you want to stop at any time I won't mind and won't ask for reasons. I generally teach from my house in Walkley, but if this is a problem for you I am prepared to negotiate an alternative.

On Reading Music

Traditional fiddle is played by ear, and so it is not necessary that you either can or learn to read music. I provide tapes to practice with, and use notation sparingly as a memory aid, and only if students want it.

A Quick Note on Buying Fiddles

If you are a complete beginner about to buy a fiddle to learn on be careful not to get a cheap one without seeking advice first as some of them can be completely unplayable. I am happy to offer advice about buying one if you contact me beforehand.

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