Beginning the Paganini Caprices

April 27, 2010 at 10:18 PM

I was just told by my teacher to go out and buy Paganini's 24 caprices. I have a LOT of work ahead of me but very excited to start =)

From Tom Holzman
Posted on April 28, 2010 at 12:54 PM

Have fun and enjoy the fact that you are a good enough player to be able to try to master these pieces.

From Jefferson Dixon
Posted on April 28, 2010 at 7:34 PM

Thanks. My only problem is that I'm 15 and JUST starting them... kind of late compared to my peers. But I started violin really late so I guess it's not bad

From Jo Parker
Posted on April 28, 2010 at 10:42 PM

15 and you started late?????? sorry could not help it!

I started learning violin at 37 and may not tackle paganini until I am 50, shall I just shoot myself now????

you are too late for what?? become a famous soloist alongside Sarah Chang et al? maybe yes, but if that's not what you are learning violin for then just enjoy and be PROUD of your achievement of learning such masterpieces when you are still a 'baby' really :)

From John Cadd
Posted on April 29, 2010 at 12:17 AM

I think Christopher Warren Green started the violin when he was 16 and became leader of a London Orchestra. Up till then he played piano. I`ll look it up to be certain.

From John Cadd
Posted on April 29, 2010 at 12:20 AM

I forgot to ask you ----did your teacher recommend any special edition. It`s a good subject to chip in on. Also Number 1 is the hardest of the lot. Do what I do and read the sports page first. Start from the back

From John Cadd
Posted on April 29, 2010 at 12:37 AM

Christopher Warren Green The archive says 14 .There you go. How strange for so many to talk about money so early when this topic arises.( in the archive I mean)

From Marty Dalton
Posted on April 29, 2010 at 3:34 AM

Have fun, but don't neglect your Kreutzer and Rode. If you ever have a problem with the caprices, return to these etudes.

From Royce Faina
Posted on April 29, 2010 at 2:28 PM

Congradulations and Best Wishes! I hope that you will post a recital of you playing them some day!

From Jefferson Dixon
Posted on April 30, 2010 at 7:30 PM

Thanks all! I still consider it late just compared to all the Juilliard and Manhattan Prep kids I play with.

To John, he said that the international edition is fine for Paganini. I also WILL be starting with no. 1... my teacher said it was easy haha.

So I have been 2 days into my study of Paganini and find that working on things seperately, slowly, carefully, and with great detail really is all you need. If practiced right, it isn't so bad =)

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Beginning the Paganini Caprices

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