Tips for getting a new violin teacher?

Question

I am soo nervous...my mom has just found a better violin teacher than before, but the thing is that the new one is freaky-good. She's busy almost 24-7, and requires an AUDITION lesson first to see if I'm good enough to study with her. My audition is scheduled for tomorrow night at 7:00pm. I feel like that I am a decent violinist, I'm a high school freshman, in Suzuki book 7ish, but recently I've felt that I've gotten worse (which is the reason we're getting a new teacher in the first place).

So I need tips and stuff on how to do well...

Edit//

Thank you all very much. It turned out that the teacher was pretty crazy, but she's really good, too. She's decided to accept me, but I have a feeling she thinks I'm stupid. ;P
Also, I found out that she is also the teacher of the concertmaster of my high school orchestra. That makes me happy. xD

So anyway, thanks again to you all who answered!

Answer 1

Why do you feel you've gotten worse?
Here are some things that may make you feel that way.
1) Instrument needs care?Make sure bridge is straight.
2) do you need a better bow? Some of the more expensive bows are built better with weights in the right places and the cheap bows just don't compare with them.
3) Have you outgrown your instrument size?
4) Sometimes after you compare yourself with someone else, you may think that you don't play so good.
5) Do you have a good quality instrument?
6) Do you practice regularly? If you have not been practicing enough you may feel that way.
7)Do you use plenty of rosin and bow straight?
If you feel you are up to standard on all of this list, then you maybe should ask your teacher if she feels that way or if your instrument has a problem. Such as cracks that need patching. That is a problem you may not notice unless you look carefully inside your instrument in front of a strong light to see if you see any light creeping in at the seems.Getting a new teacher doesn't always solve the problem. So before you switch, see what your old teacher thinks the problem is.

Answer 2

Don't sweat it. An audition will just tell her that you really are along in your studies as you've said, and she'll be able to see that you do have potential to learn and grow more. You may feel you've gotten worse recently because either your teacher wasn't expecting enough from you before - or you weren't being challenged enough- and you've hit a wall with how much you're growing in your playing. Maybe you're to the point where you can see where you need to work and do better, so you perceive that as "gotten worse". Has your current teacher said you're not progressing the way you should? A new teacher is a good idea to get a fresh perspective on your track- however make sure this is an audition for your teacher as well. Pay attention to how she works with you on the piece you play- because she should. And if you like the way she works with you and her mannerisms, then relax and go with it. I would suggest taking your prepared piece and then something you're working on too. You should get a sample of her teaching style before you switch. Also, I wouldn't be surprised if she is very blunt and up front with you about exactly what she expects from you. Take note, and know exactly what you're getting into- especially regarding the work load you'll be giving and her policies- like if you can't make a lesson or something. And with this "busy 24/7", she's not in the habit of canceling lessons or not showing anything is she?

Good luck and hang in there! Music is something that lasts a lifetime.... so enjoy!

Answer 3

Just do your best, and don't make yourself too nervous.
I went through something similar this past summer, auditioning with my current teacher, who is still active as concertmaster of one of the major East Coast professional orchestras and who almost never takes new students. As terrifying as the prospect seems, and as inadequate as you might feel beforehand, remember that the teacher has already agreed to give you the opportunity to audition---that means, at least, that they think you have some kind of potential. If this teacher didn't want you, chances are she would have told you she didn't have any room for a new student. That being said, she won't expect you to be perfect---teachers are there to help you improve, not intimidate or judge you. Do your best not to worry: I don't think anxiety has ever improved anyone's playing, and if you don't make the audition, there will always be other teachers. If you feel you need to, you could briefly explain to this prospective teacher that you feel your playing has gotten worse, and you are auditioning with her in hopes that her teaching can get you back on a forward track. Make sure this teacher is someone you feel comfortable working with: auditions are never the most friendly environments, but if you think this teacher is someone who will consistently make you too nervous to play well, then it may be better to look elsewhere.

Other than that: take a deep breath, have confidence in your own ability, and practice. :)

Answer 4

Been there and done that. Between my sister and I, we went through several teachers. Your best bet is to ask around. If you are in an orchestra group with your school, ask your conductor/teacher. They know other artists who are teaching on the side. Also, see if there is a music school in your area. I ended up with another teacher from the district for my Private lessons. My sister ended up at the music school that was sponsored by the St. Louis Symphony. Also, call violin maker shops around town. They too will know good string teachers. If you go to a place that sells stringed, band, guitars, drum, etc. (mega store) they won't be as knowledgeable. (or at least in my musical career) Hope that helps.

Answer 5

100+ Violin Master Videos DIY : http://ViolinLions.com/Service

Answer 6

Hey I study suzuki in egypt. have reached book 8 then started learning pieces from outside. I also assisted my tutor in teaching junior suzuki violin students. cheers