Unbeaten Tracks for Violin: Violin & Piano Book

Fresh and assured. The eight pieces inhabit a musical language that sounds current without sacrificing lyricism or structural clarity. You'll encounter textures and colors that may be new to you, but they always serve the music rather than existing for novelty's sake.

Violinists working at intermediate levels who are ready to encounter contemporary music without leaving behind solid musical footing. This is ideal for students preparing for exams that include contemporary options, or for recitalists looking to diversify a program beyond standard romantic and classical fare.

• Read the composer biopics before diving into each piece; understanding what inspired the writing often clarifies the musical intention and helps you shape phrasing more authentically.
• Approach the contemporary sounds and techniques as extensions of what you already know rather than obstacles. Work slowly through any unfamiliar textures to build confidence before adding tempo.
• Collaborate closely with your pianist from the first rehearsal. These pieces depend on ensemble balance and precise rhythmic coordination, especially when contemporary idioms are at play.

Use individual pieces as contemporary options within a mixed recital, or program several together as a contemporary set to open or close a concert. These work equally well in student showcases where you want to signal musical growth and breadth of style.

• Playing contemporary musical idioms and extended techniques in accessible context
• Interpreting composer intent through provided biographical context
• Balancing ensemble partnership with pianist across varied textures and rhythmic frameworks
• Building confidence with contemporary notation and sound worlds at intermediate level