Position Pieces for Violin, Book 2: Violin & Piano

Wilkinson's Position Pieces approach position work with genuine musicality rather than mechanical drills. Book 2 gives students real pieces to explore, making the sometimes tedious work of shifting feel purposeful and connected to actual performance.

Straightforward and musical. These pieces offer clear melodic shapes and piano accompaniment that supports the violin line without overshadowing it. The writing sits comfortably under the hand while requiring careful attention to intonation as you navigate positions.

Violin students working through intermediate positions (typically early-to-mid level), ready to move beyond isolated position exercises into actual repertoire. This book serves students who need reinforcement in shifting technique while maintaining their interest through genuine pieces rather than studies alone.

• Mark your shift points in pencil before the first rehearsal. Knowing exactly where you're moving prevents hesitation and builds confidence in the new position.
• Practice the piano part yourself or listen carefully to how the accompaniment sits with your shifts. The context makes your position work sound intentional rather than awkward.
• Record yourself playing through a piece without stopping, then identify which shifts felt secure and which need attention. Focus your isolated work there rather than drilling everything equally.

Use Book 2 as a spring recital source for intermediate students. A position piece works well as a concert opener or as part of a multi-piece student recital, where it demonstrates technical growth without demanding the dramatic presence of a larger concerto.

• Secure shifting between positions with clear intonation
• Reading and responding to melodic shape while managing position changes
• Ensemble balance and listening to accompaniment support
• Phrasing across position boundaries without interruption