Strictly Strings, Book 2: Violin Book

The letter-note notation system bridges rote and standard notation seamlessly, allowing students to access real ensemble music before they've internalized the traditional staff. Rather than delaying ensemble playing until reading skills solidify, Strictly Strings gets violins playing together immediately, building confidence and community while reading develops naturally in parallel.

Music comes alive when students can play together immediately, and Strictly Strings captures that energy from the start. The repertoire balances recognizable melodies with fresh material in different keys and modes, keeping the learning process musical rather than mechanical, while the letter-note system makes each new concept feel accessible rather than intimidating.

Strictly Strings Book 2 is designed for students who have completed the first book and are ready to deepen their reading skills, expand their technical range, and take on more sophisticated ensemble roles. It works equally well for violinists in school orchestra programs, community string groups, and private studio settings where ensemble playing is part of the learning experience.

• Establish consistent bow hold and posture before working through the first lessons; the method's accessibility can tempt rushing physical fundamentals, which compounds later.
• Use the varied melodies and keys throughout Book 2 to reinforce that student violins can move beyond unison patterns; alternating who carries the melody keeps rehearsals engaging and builds individual responsibility.
• Introduce ensemble passages gradually, starting with two-part unison sections before moving to true harmony; the careful lesson sequence supports this progression if you honor its pacing.

Use Book 2 as your primary violin method during year two of a school orchestra program, pairing it with your ensemble rehearsals so students practice the material they're playing together. The varied keys and modes introduce tonal concepts that enrich sectional work and prepare students for the literature you're reading as a full orchestra.

• Reading standard notation with fluency and confidence
• Playing in multiple keys and modes
• Ensemble intonation and balance
• Independent part reading within a string section
• Bow control and tone consistency across varied melodic material