Resources & Materials

Land Acknowledgement

I acknowledge the land politically designated as New York City to be the homeland of the Lenape (Lenapehoking) who were violently displaced as a result of European settler colonialism over the course of 400 years. The harms continue to this day, and I encourage all of us to learn more and find ways to actively work towards repair.

https://www.nyc.gov/site/cchr/about/cchr-land-acknowledgment.page

Read more at the Brooklyn Public Library

Materials

Violin

A well-sized and set up instrument is extremely important for students to thrive. Before moving forward, WAIT until I confirm the size you should order.

I strongly encourage my students to rent from Johnson Strings. They ship instruments to you, exchanges are easy, and they provide the best quality instruments for students that I have found. Instrument insurance covers loss & damage, which offers invaluable low-stress for parents.

https://www.johnsonstring.com/rental/rates.htm

Shoulder Rest

  • An order for young students should also include a Blue (extra firm) Poly Pad in the corresponding size. There are a few types of shoulder rest that we might also consider together.

  • For tweens/teens/adults, other shoulder rest options might be discussed before you order.

    Additional Required Materials

  • Pencil, tote bag, notebook

  • Phone w/ video function and plenty of space

  • Fingernail clippers & file - keep these in your violin case

  • Music books when needed

    Strings & Bow Hair

  • Strings should be replaced at minimum every 6 months. Check whether your E string needs a “ball end” or “loop end” before ordering. Dominant or Warchal brands are reliable.

  • Horsehair needs to be replaced every 6 months. I recommend Zachary Lane for this. https://www.zacharylanenyc.com/

  • Read more about instrument care:

  • Student size bows typically can only be exchanged, not rehaired. Plan to request an exchange from Johnson Strings every 6 months for this.

Music Stand

I recommend the PEAK SMS-20, PEAK SMS-32, PEAK SMS-40, or PEAK SMS-50 music stand.

  • A music stand is not needed until the student is playing comfortably and working on reading notes.

  • This can be a once-per-lifetime purchase if well chosen.

  • Violin players typically stand to practice solo repertoire. We also sit, but it should be high enough for a tall person.

  • A music stand that can extend to 59” - 72” music stand is best so that students do not develop poor posture by stooping to look at their music.

  • We require a heavy-duty music stand because music books can be heavy, so that we don’t knock it over, and in order to withstand years of use.

  • PEAK music stands are collapsable, portable and light-weight. Manhasset music stands are also fantastic, but heavier and not portable. They are available in different heights; please order the tall stand for a teenager.

Links

Zin Zin - A Violin! - a wonderful read-aloud version of this book for children with accompanying music.

Student Resources - Handouts - A folder of handouts I use often.