Advanced Violin Workshop with Gina McCormack

About Advanced Violin Workshop with Gina McCormack

Improve your sound and work on aspects of technique which will help your performing, in a fun, relaxed environment. Pianist Jordi Bitlloch will be accompanying everyone and adding his wisdom.

What is the course about?

Gina is known for her endless energy and enthusiasm as a teacher and she is joined by pianist Jordi Bitlloch, who was much praised by last year’s participants! No stone is left unturned as Gina explores every aspect of performing in a masterclass setting, sharing her ‘hot tips’ on everything from posture, sound production, getting rid of performance anxiety, and how to navigate the violin with greater ease. Jordi adds his wealth of wisdom from the keyboard and is on hand to rehearse with participants.

What will you learn?

A huge range of topics, often inspired by the participants themselves. Previous courses have dealt with off-the-string strokes (to improve musical style in Mozart), breathing to improve gestures and show more character, posture and stance, intelligent bow use, ensemble skills and building confidence.

By the end of this course, you will:

Problem-solve much better as you practise.
Listen more critically to help you improve your sound and phrasing.
Return home with a “toolbag” of handy tips.

How will the course be taught?

Participants will bring a piece or two of their choice which they have prepared. Lessons are given in a supportive masterclass situation – one learns such a lot from listening to and watching others – and there will be time to rehearse with piano.

Who is the course for?

Skilful. This is for advanced players looking to work on high-level aspects.

Will music be provided and do you need to prepare or bring anything?

Participants are requested to bring their own music, including piano parts. Helpful resources: IMSLP has a wide range of parts and scores. All participants may borrow music from the Benslow Music Library during the course with Members able to borrow music year round.

Please bring your violin, the music you want to work on (including piano parts), and a notebook for a growing list of ‘hot tips’!

Course Tutors

Gina was the best tutor I have had… and I have attended many other summer schools. She was kind supportive but clear and honest.

It was a joyful and empowering course. I think we'll all want to book again next year!

Gina and Jordi were superb tutors and superb musicians. We all got individual feedback and tips on our playing which were extremely useful and insightful, and mostly of general application so that we learned from each other's feedback as well as our own.

An absolute spring-clean of violin technique, ensemble and interpretation. Lots to take on board, both during the course and to practise later at home.