November 27, 2004 at 4:28 PM

It's been another productive week of practice. I am still seeing improvement every day although now I am trying to concentrate on being "correct" rather than just getting through the pieces with a nice tone.

My lesson was quite amusing, firstly the tutor had invited his brother to come see and hear my violin. Ok it's a litte different, it's assymetrical and has rather stylised f holes (www.timsviolins.co.uk ) it may appear avant garde but the sound is fabulous. The bottom is really cello sounding and the top sings without screaching. This lad really knows what he is making !

My teacher is very impressed with the tone. His brother couldn't beleive the volume !!
I played pretty c**p for the teacher, always the way, I was concentrating too hard. Always play better at home when I feel freer to play a little.

Today I played the Sicilienne from the Bach Flute Sonate in Eb. 2 weeks ago I would never have dreamed I would be playing something like that, albeit badly. I was so glad I could finish it in one sitting. I went back to playing my grade 2 and 3 pieces and they seemed so much easier.
My biggest challenge this week is a simple down bow to a minim rest followed by another down bow. Try as I might I always get a sound on that second down bow.. I want it to be smooth as butter... Early days indeed :)
Don