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Evan Elsley

Violin Technique for Diploma Exams by a Diploma Examiner, University Violin Lecturer, Adjudicator & Performer.
Book Teaser Pages  
 

Evan Elsley

Violin Technique for Diploma Exams by a Diploma Examiner, University Violin Lecturer, Adjudicator & Performer.
Book Teaser Pages  

Evan Elsley

Violin Technique for Diploma Exams by a Diploma Examiner, University Violin Lecturer, Adjudicator & Performer.
Book Teaser Pages  

Technical sensations that make the difference

1. Intonation and co-ordination

As an examiner, my experience is that the ability to capture secure intonation and co-ordination on an instrument that does not always stay in tune, is the biggest technical problem for candidates. Simply placing a finger down in advance, or tuning a finger after playing it is not suitable at virtuosic levels. My book provides exercises that resolve this by placing every technique into a cause and effect timeline.

2. Active  listening to control muscle memory

Diploma technique requires students to use active listening to control physical movement while it occurs. Most candidates use passive listening which judges the result after it occurs. This process is technical luck. My book details listening as a timeline technique.

3. Forces of nature and the bow

Many students fight against gravity and air pressure using tension and muscle strength, particularly when string crossing. Beginner methods reinforce this process. The forces of bow weight, gravity, muscle groups, and balance points generate speed that is not captured by practice alone. Compare Kreutzer Etude No 6, which is normally taught as whole bows starting with a down bow. Compare this with starting with an up bow. Same intended technical result, yet one captures greater finesse.

4. Momentum in fast passages

Unsettled technical control in fast passages is common at the Associate Diploma level. Rapid changes in directional momentum can be felt with ease by using techniques borrowed from sport and dance, such as preparation. 

5. Logic and invention

At the Licentiate level, progress depends on inventive and logistical thinking. Most students continue to rely on beginner methods used at lower grade levels. Thinking like a violinist requires logic and creative problem-solving. Consider the technical requirement to play spiccato in the middle of the bow, yet the player finishes the previous note at the heel of the bow. This is not logical. For fast passages it is better to finish the previous note where you can then go straight away into the spiccato. 

Supporting evidence and results

Results of students provide supporting evidence. These students are not talent searched, achieve diploma levels in their early teens, are judged by master teachers, performers and compete at the highest Australian levels.

The book is available for purchase online and in selected violin shops

It can also be accessed at; 

 

  • Win music scholarships to private schools.
  • Win talent quests.
  • Win early University degree offers at auditions.
  • Achieve top band HSC results.
  • Achieve university Performance Degrees.
  • Win competitions.

Competitions

  • Achieve AMEB Performance Diplomas.
  • Achieve ATAR bonus points.
  • Achieve HSC Encore nominations.
  • Enjoy top Grade exam results. 
  • Win Eisteddfods.
  • Achieve 100% IB performance results.

Masterclasses