June 2014

The Sassmannshaus method gets results!

The video above is an example of my junior ensemble. The reason I have uploaded this is to extoll the virtues of the Sassamannshaus books, which hardly anyone talks about on this site. I have used the Sassmannshaus method for years with great results, due to the logical progression of the material. Because of this, the children really understand what they are doing. Also, the choice of the material leads to a good understanding of style and interpretation. This is a method based on intellectual development, requiring input from the student in terms of assessment of quality of sound and interpretation. The group on the video are aged between eight and nine years old.

This older group also was mostly developed under the Sassmannshaus books, which finish with the fourth volume, at which point it's possible to delve staight into Mazas. The fourth volume introduces positions with many baroque and classical duets which are a pleasure to learn. I suggest everyone look closely at the entire method, and if you are put off by the rapid accelaration at the beginning as I certainly was, go slowly. In fact I have written a preparatory volume which works very well for my students

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