Fiddle Club - Learn Traditional Tunes by Ear on Violin, Fiddle, Viola, or Cello
What's included
1 live meeting
30 mins in-class hours per weekClass Experience
Intermediate Level
Discover the joy of learning fiddle tunes the traditional way – by ear! This course is perfect for violin, fiddle, viola, and cello players with at least one year of playing experience. Classical musicians can explore a new genre, while fiddle players will add a new tune to their repertoire. In each session, you’ll: 🎻 Practice listening skills through the tune-teach format. 🎻 Discuss the structure of traditional fiddle tunes and learn some music theory. 🎻 Focus on a different traditional tune every time, ensuring a new learning experience for those who attend multiple sessions. Already know the basic tune? Your teacher will provide tips and tricks to enhance your fiddle playing and personalize the tune. Traditional tunes offer plenty of opportunities for improvisation and embellishment, making this course suitable for beginners and advancing musicians alike. Experience fiddle tunes in a friendly and encouraging environment. Interact with the teacher and fellow learners as you demonstrate and practice new tunes. You'll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions, join discussions, and, if comfortable, showcase your playing to the class. Build a community with fellow fiddlers each week. Sign up now to join a fun, interactive class where you’ll improve your skills and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow music enthusiasts! Here's an example tune breakdown for the first several classes: 🎻Week 1 - Cripple Creek 🎻Week 2 - Old Joe Clark 🎻Week 3 - Liberty 🎻Week 4 - Soldier's Joy 🎻Week 5 - Spotted Pony
Learning Goals
Musicians will learn to play a traditional fiddle tune on their violin, fiddle, viola, or cello. Students will improve their listening and ear training skills and learn rote playing (playing by ear.) Students will learn the structure and history of the featured fiddle tune.
Other Details
Supply List
Students will need a violin/fiddle, viola, or cello and bow in working condition. (In tune before the class, bow rosined, set up to play.) Because this class focuses on playing by ear, reference sheet music will be made available on request after each session. Students can also refer to the session recording to continue practicing the tune.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
1 teacher has a teaching certificate
Virginia Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
1 teacher has a Graduate degree
Master's Degree in Education from Marymount University
Alani Sugar began playing the violin at age 9 and discovered bluegrass at 13, solidifying her passion for the fiddle.
As an up-and-coming musician, Alani brings a fresh, young perspective to bluegrass and old-time music, constantly pushing the boundaries of these genres.
Alani is also a dedicated fiddle and mandolin teacher who loves working with students of all ages and skill levels. She offers private lessons, group classes, and self-paced courses. In her private lessons, she covers repertoire, technique, ear training, music reading (if desired), improvisation, and playing music with others, all tailored to each student’s interests and goals. Students often praise her for being patient, communicative, and adaptable in her teaching methods.
In August 2020, Alani released her debut solo album, "Walkin' After Midnight." She continues to inspire and educate through her online music lessons, sharing her love for music with learners everywhere.
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Chris Jones is a lifelong musician and multi-instrumentalist. He began learning Suzuki Cello at 3 years old and picked up violin in grade school. After discovering an old mandolin in a closet, Chris fell in love with the instrument and learned bluegrass and folk music. From there, he went on to learn guitar, banjo, and piano as part of his continuing music studies.
Chris earned his Doctorate in Music from West Virginia University. He has taught music as a visiting assistant professor at West Virginia Wesleyan College, teaching applied instrumental lessons in guitar, mandolin, banjo, bass, and fiddle. He also founded the West Virginia Wesleyan Appalachian ensemble and taught music theory, ear training, music history, and general education courses in music appreciation. Chris is a talented educator who makes learning music fun and accessible for students of all ages and skill levels. With his breadth of knowledge and expertise on several instruments, he is sure to be a great fit for your young musician.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$25
weekly1x per week
30 min
Completed by 4 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-14
2-8 learners per class