Music/repertoire for a solo violin strolling gig.

September 7, 2013 at 09:10 AM · What purpose do you have in mind? Encore after a concerto or maybe busking?

One of my favorites (formal performance) is Handel IV sonata, first movement. I actually think its better solo. But for spontaneous playing I think its best to choose something people recognize, something like Jesus joy of man's desire comes easily to the fingers and the ear.

But maybe you were thinking along the lines of Ysaye...

September 7, 2013 at 10:15 AM · try a selection from "the dancing master" - the john playford collection of renaissance dance tunes - 1651-1728.

September 7, 2013 at 09:24 PM · I suggest taking a look at Paganini's large output of duets for violin with guitar - many of the pieces can stand alone without guitar. They are of all lengths and range in difficulty from some that are technically not at all difficult (P. in fact dedicated sets of the shorter sonatas to his high-born lady pupils) to others that really do need honed professional skills. What they all have in common is that they are tuneful, betraying Paganini's love of opera and folk tunes, and would be attractive to almost any audience.

September 7, 2013 at 10:20 PM · Some of Paganini's 24 Caprices sound good too (You can listen to some online) - but as music they are not as great as Bach. But then nothing else for solo violin is as great as Bach.

September 8, 2013 at 03:24 AM · I would have to agree with Trevor : Paganini's s duets for violin and guitar are an excellent choice. The guitar has surprisingly little to do ; they could be solo violin pieces. Many people are unfamiliar with them so they will sound quite new and fresh to most listeners.

September 8, 2013 at 05:49 AM · Czardas by V. Monti

September 8, 2013 at 05:59 AM · Some movie tunes like "Schindler's list" , themes from "the Titanic" or the Tango from "Scent of a woman" to name just a few are very popular.

Tangos like "El Choclo" .

Elgar " Salut d'Amour" or "Chanson de Matin" .

Dvorak "Humoresque"

September 8, 2013 at 10:52 AM · I would suggest to have a look at the many short pieces, both original and arranged, by Kreisler. many of them are simple and also sound good without the piano accompaniment.