Violin
OVERVIEW
Violins are the “singing” voice of the string section and are the primary instrument in the orchestra. They have been used more recently in jazz and popular music settings.
VIOLIN HISTORY
The Violin is dated back to the early 1500’s by Andrea Amati, a lute maker who used the older Viol as its model. Master violin makers Antonio Stradivari and Giuseppe Guarneri were both Italian makers that have violins that are worth millions today. Antonio Vivaldi and Johann Sebastian Bach were early composers who brought the violin to the forefront of the orchestra and wrote specifically with the virtuoso instrumentalist in mind.
WHEN TO START
We recommend that kids start playing the violin at an early age. They make different sizes for smaller individuals, down to a 1/16th size! 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and 4/4 (full size) are different sizes for different size beginners. By the time the student is fully grown, they will be on a full size violin. Starting with a smaller violin will not affect the player switching to a larger instrument.
VIOLIN BRANDS
Violins can vary greatly in price range. Beginners should be able to find an instrument for under $300 that comes complete with the violin, bow, rosin (for the bow) and the case. There are many manufacturers that make quality instruments. Glaesal, Strauth, Hofner, Karl Willhelm, Knilling, SKB, Strunal, Wood and Yamaha are just a few of the common violins for beginner to professional.
VIOLINISTS
Isaac Stern, Fritz Kreisler, and Nicolo Paganini are phenomenal violinists in the classical sense of the violin. Today, other genres have used violins in jazz, pop and experimental music. Stéphane Grappelli was a French jazz violinist, Boyd Tensley played with the Dave Matthews Band and Mark Wood has performed with the Trans Siberian Orchestra as a Lead Violinist using an electric violin and effects much like a rock guitarist. Irish music uses the violin for traditional music and country music uses the violin, but refers to it as a “fiddle.”
ADVANCED TECHNIQUES
Violin is very broad in its uses and genres. Those wanting to learn different styles like country or Irish could learn the styles of each genre, the jazz idiom and pop/rock is another path. All of the styles are based on a basic understanding of the violin and much practice in each genre. Check out www.playmusic.org for more information about the string orchestra.
Matt Opachick
Matt Opachick has always been involved in Music. Growing up in Washington, Pennsylvania, Matt picked up the violin and the guitar from an early age. In high school he was able to participate in District, Regional, and State Orchestras, as well as the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra for two years. Also, while still in High School he participated in the Jazz Band, Marching Band, and several Rock Bands as a guitar player. Choosing to leave his hometown to study music, he attended Capital University in Bexley, Ohio.
Jason M. Ferrell
Mr. Ferrell has been playing professionally in Central Ohio for over 12 years and teaching privately for 16 years. He graduated from New Albany High School in 1992 and went to The Ohio State University where he majored in music. He was a 4-year soloist for The Ohio State University Marching Band and played lead trumpet in the Jazz Ensemble. After a leave of college, Mr. Ferrell was asked to play lead trumpet for the Big Band show at Capital University.
Hannah Richardson
Hannah Richardson's life has been centered around music since she was born. Her mother taught her piano lessons at a young age and she has since developed her musical skills in a number of ways. As a Vocal Performance major at Capital University, Hannah has continued her voice studies in classical, musical theater, and contemporary forms. She has been involved in a number of productions during her time at Capital in both lead and supporting roles, and has also been a member of the Chapel Choir, Philomel Chamber Vocal Ensemble, and Vanguard Jazz Combo.
Alyssa Capps
Alyssa started playing piano with her grandmother at age 5 and loved making music so much that she joined the school orchestra, band and choir. As she spent more time playing, her primary focus became cello and she began to study privately with cellists from the Lima Symphony and Bowling Green State University. Alyssa also participated in the Lima Area Youth Orchestra, District III Honors Orchestra and at the BGSU Summer Strings Program during high school.
