Am I a beginner or intermediate level fiddler?
FiddleHed Dena asked, “What makes a fiddler player an intermediate fiddle player? What is the criteria of information or skills to be considered an intermediate fiddler?”
Beginner’s mind
I’d start by saying to approach learning as a beginner, no matter how far along the journey you are.
- Each time you begin a practice session you are a beginner. As you warm up, you move into more intermediate territory. When you play the very hardest thing for you, then you are an advanced player at that moment.
- You can learn something new when each time you play a tune. Even the simplest tunes can teach you things throughout your fiddle journey.
- Learn Some Easy Tunes!
Here are some signposts of an intermediate level player ☝️:
- You’re comfortable with the basic finger positions: first, second, low second, and third fingerings.
- You’re able to slur two or more notes together.
- You know about thirty tunes by memory.
- Here’s an overview of the Beginner course. If you can do the techniques on this page then you’re probably ready for the Intermediate course.
The journey is the destination
- It’s a cliche, but a cliche for a reason.
- Worry less about what level you’ve achieved and focus more on the quality of your practice.
- Do you practice consistently (at least 20 minutes a day 6 days a week)?
- Are your practice sessions enjoyable?
- Are you able to focus?
Two ways I can help you level up your fiddling
- Sign up for the FiddleHed newsletter below.
- Sign up for the Free Two-week Trial. You’ll get full access to all courses and group lessons. Plus, I’ll send you some free lessons tailored to your current skill level.
Thanks for being here 🙏