Books › A Practical Guide to Violin-Playing, 1913 › scan 29
Scan 29
A Practical Guide to Violin-Playing, 1913
28 lines. Read by computer on 3 September 2026. Printed page 11. See the scan on archive.org.
1To conclude this chapter: the student should lay to heart Schumann's advice.
3the wise words of the great composer Schumann, who, in his "Haus und Lebensregeln," says:—
5"The cultivation of the ear is of the greatest importance—endeavour early to distinguish every different note and key. Find out the exact notes sounded by the bell, the glass, the cuckoo, etc."
7"Practise frequently the scale and other finger exercises, but this alone is not sufficient. There are many people who think they will obtain grand results in this way, and who spend many hours daily in mechanical labour. That is the same as if we tried every day to pronounce the alphabet with greater volubility!"
9"Learn betimes the fundamental principles of harmony."
11"Do not be afraid of the words, Theory, Thoroughbass, Counterpoint, etc.; you will understand their full meaning in due time."
13"You may play too slow or too fast; both are faults."
15"Endeavour to play easy pieces well; it is better than playing difficult pieces badly."
17"Take care always to have your instrument well tuned."
19"You must be able to understand a piece of music on paper."
21"By earnest study and perseverance you will raise yourself higher and higher."
23"Mix freely with your fellow students, especially with those who know more than yourself."
25"Always practise as if your master were present."
27"When you have done your musical day's work and feel tired, do not exert yourself further. It is better to rest than to work without pleasure and vigour."
The computer misreads some letters and numbers. Where a name matters to you, read the scan.