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Violin or Viola Basics

An introduction to playing the violin or viola for teens who are new to, or considering taking up the instrument.
Dr Steph Acaster
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:
(253)
Star Educator
Class

What's included

1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hours

Class Experience

This class is an introduction to violin and/or viola basics, aimed at teens who are curious or just starting out. Taught by a teacher who first took music lessons at the age of 23, the first message is: "it's not too late to learn!"

We will cover the parts of the instruments, how to make your first sounds (pizzicato notes and open string bowing), and how to relate the sounds to treble clef or alto clef sheet music. We will also discuss some of the challenges and triumphs of learning to play a string instrument. If students are interested in playing the electric violin, we will also compare this to the traditional acoustic instruments.

The class will include some lecture/demonstration segments, as well as opportunities for Q&A and discussion. Students will be able to play along and try out some exercises during class, but if you don't have a violin yet and want to come along for an introduction and observe those segments, that's fine too! No prior knowledge is needed, just an interest in learning either violin or viola.
Learning Goals
Students will gain knowledge about the violin/viola and how to make basic sounds.
learning goal

Other Details

Supply List
Bring along your violin/viola if you have one (this is not required to join the class).
If you don't have one yet, bring along a pencil or pen so that you can practice the hand shape needed to hold a violin bow!
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined June, 2020
5.0
253reviews
Star Educator
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Doctoral Degree in Psychology from Sheffield Hallam University
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from University of Birmingham, UK
ABOUT ME
I love to learn, and I am a big advocate of following your interests - even if they might not seem compatible at first glance!
My teaching philosophy is to encourage intellectual curiosity, motivation, and aspiration in students, whatever their current stage of education.

I teach a range of subject areas, including Psychology, Biology, Music Theory, and Maths. I'm developing new ideas all the time, so please feel welcome to get in touch if there's something you'd like to see! I can also create custom sessions - so if there's something you're looking for and can't find, please just ask!


GENERAL TEACHING APPROACH
My teaching style differs depending on different topics/activities, but my general approach is to welcome students into an environment where they can engage at a level where they feel comfortable, whilst also having opportunities to reach further and learn new things. I believe that learning is forever, and that learning should never be constrained by just one syllabus/curriculum. Students tend to learn best when they are really interested in the subject, and I love to be able to give students the chance to explore their interests! 

I encourage students to tell me what they already know about a topic, and I don't assume that I'm always the expert! I believe that learners can learn from each other's experiences and knowledge too. I also encourage everyone to ask 'why' things work as they do, and to research further around topics that capture their interest.

I don't use AI tools to provide feedback to learners as I believe that feedback should be provided that is genuine and written in my own voice.

I also believe that everyone should be able to participate in my classes, so if there may be barriers or you require adjustments to allow you to participate in a class, please feel welcome to get in touch. 

Aside from initial verification when joining the session, I do not require students to use their camera for the full session (though sometimes I will request for certain activities!). I ask students to participate, but accept that this may be verbal discussion, writing in the chat box, or using zoom 'reactions' or visual cues on camera to respond during class. In general, I will invite anyone who would like to get involved to raise their hand, rather than putting an individual 'on the spot'.



MY CLASSES - OVERVIEW
I offer a range of sessions on Psychology topics - including themes such as Introduction to Neuroscience/Neuropsychology, Psychology of Music, Brain History, and Psychology of Gaming. The aim of these sessions is to capture students' interest, share knowledge from an unusual angle, and/or give space for students to discuss their interests while bringing in elements of the science of Psychology in an accessible way.

The most popular courses in 2023 were my ongoing sessions where students can further their learning in a relaxed setting, such as my Biology, Animal Anatomy, Plants, and Neuroscience colouring classes (where students can listen whilst making creative learning resources, with little pressure to answer questions and no pressure to be tested).

I offer lots of Flexible Schedule classes suitable for learners who prefer to take time to process information or to dig into a topic more deeply before coming back to discussion or to complete assignments. These classes allow students to take time to engage with material and written discussion threads outside of the constraints of a live session schedule, and spend additional time completing assignments that will encourage deeper thinking and topic enjoyment. These classes can also be great as holiday-projects!

I offer individual tutoring for students who would like to explore additional topics in Psychology, Biology, Mathematics, or Music. These sessions can be used to supplement other classes, as an individualised study session/program, or as subject-related mentoring.

For all my classes, if you don't see a suitable section scheduled, please do reach out as I can often fit in additional meetings!


WHAT ELSE DO I GET UP TO?
As well as teaching online on Outschool and independently, I also work as an Associate Lecturer in Psychology at the Open University. When I'm not teaching, I can usually be found practicing the violin, playing in orchestra, reading, and learning new things.

I previously completed a PhD in Psychology/Cognitive Neuroscience, which involved using EEG (an electrical brain recording method) to investigate visual perception. I have taught high school and university level Psychology classes since 2014, and I have tutored in Biology, Maths, and Music Theory since 2018. I started to learn the violin as an adult and progressed through to ABRSM Grade 8 in violin and AMusTCL Diploma level in music theory!

Reviews

Live One-Time Class
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$18

per class
Meets once
55 min

Completed by 4 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18
1-5 learners per class

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