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Fiddling for Classical Kids, Teacher Manual: String Orchestra, Methods, Book

$19.95 USD
$19.95 USD
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Fiddling for Classical Kids, Teacher Manual Cover Image
Fiddling for Classical Kids, Teacher Manual: String Orchestra, Methods, Book

Fiddling for Classical Kids, Teacher Manual: String Orchestra, Methods, Book

By Edward Caner

Grade: 1.5

Item: 36-52793382
$19.95
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Description
This method focuses on important fundamental elements that can be found in Celtic, bluegrass, old-time, Texas and jazz fiddling the shuffle, the displaced shuffle, the Georgia shuffle and no-slur bowing. "Fiddling for Classical Kids" is appropriate for both orchestral classroom instruction and private studio use. Individual parts are available for violin, viola and cello-bass. All parts are interchangeable (no transposing!). Contents: Shortin' Bread; Angeline the Baker; The Girl I left Behind Me; Flop-Eared Mule; Bonaparte's Retreat; Oh, Suzanna!; Paddy Won't You Drink Some cider; Barlow Knife; Granny Does Your Dog Bite?; Molly Put the Kettle On; Goodbye Liza Jane; Lady Anne Montgomery. All songs include both the original tune and a "Comp" line, and students are encouraged to try playing both. And downloadable audio is included for each tune (both a slow and a fast version) to serve as a model and to serve as further practice accompaniment. The Teacher's Manual includes full scores of all the tunes, along with helpful suggestions on how to best teach each tune.

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Additional Details
Series: Latham Music - LudwigMasters
Publisher: Keiser Productions, Inc.
ISBN10: 1-68-296686-0
ISBN13: 978-168-296-6860
UPC: 612735895051
SKU: 36-52793382
Instrumentation: String Orchestra and Downloadable Audio

More about this title

Why we love this

Caner bridges the gap between classical string training and the living traditions of American fiddling by embedding shuffle rhythms and bowing techniques directly into accessible repertoire. The "Comp" line option transforms each tune into a collaborative learning moment, letting students experience different roles within a single piece. Downloadable audio models in both slow and fast tempos give every student access to an aural reference, which is essential when teaching styles that live primarily in listening and imitation.

What to expect

These tunes carry the energy and warmth of American folk traditions: there's joy in the shuffle rhythms, narrative charm in melodies like "Granny Does Your Dog Bite?" and "Barlow Knife," and a rhythmic buoyancy that invites students to listen and respond rather than simply follow notation. The style feels immediate and human in a way that can rekindle curiosity about what strings can do beyond Mozart.

Who it's for

Orchestra teachers working with students in Grades 1-2 who want to expand beyond traditional classical repertoire while maintaining technical rigor. Private studio instructors will find the interchangeable parts and downloadable accompaniments especially valuable for mixed-level or flexible ensemble settings.

How to get the most out of it

  • Work through the slow versions of the audio tracks first, using them to internalize the shuffle pattern and bowing style before attempting tempo. Pause and replay sections as needed to lock in the rhythmic feel.
  • Rotate students between the melody and the Comp line so everyone builds comfort with both roles. This prevents the piece from feeling like a two-tier experience and strengthens the ensemble's sense of interdependence.
  • Pay close attention to the no-slur bowing passages, as this technique defines the character of the style. Isolate these measures in sectional rehearsals and have students practice the bow strokes independently before combining them with intonation.
  • Use the fast audio versions strategically near the end of your teaching sequence, once the shuffle feel is secure. These tracks work well as performance models and can help students push toward a comfortable tempo without rushing.

How to use it

Introduce this material as a spring or summer unit when the orchestra is ready for something lighter and more rhythmically playful than winter repertoire. The collection also works beautifully in culturally focused concerts, demonstrating how classical training serves multiple musical traditions. Individual tunes can slot into themed programs celebrating folk music or American heritage without requiring a separate rehearsal season.

Skills your students will build

  • Shuffle rhythm patterns (basic, displaced, Georgia shuffle)
  • No-slur bowing technique and bow control
  • Flexible intonation in a stylistic context
  • Accompaniment awareness and part flexibility
  • Listening-based learning and aural model matching
  • Interchangeable part reading across violin, viola, and cello-bass

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