You are here:
Violin/Expert Profile
Expertise
BEFORE YOU ASK, PLEASE NOTE: I cannot answer questions about instrument repair or value. You need to visit a reputable local violin shop for such assistance, or do some reasearch online: http://www.oriscus.com/mi/violin.htm I can answer questions related to the study of the violin, teaching violin and the performance of concert (classical) music. I'm happy to assist anyone who is serious about his/her violin journey as a pathway to personal growth and musical achievement.
Experience in the area
I am a professional symphony violinist, studio recording musician and also a private studio teacher specializing in the Suzuki Method. I've arranged music for small ensembles and voice, and have contracted musical performances in a variety of venues.
Organizations
American String Teachers Association, Suzuki Institute of the Americas
Education/Credentials
B.A. Music, UCLA, California State Polytechnic University, Suzuki Pedagogical studies at the Suzuki Institute of Colorado and at Occidental College.
Something controversial or provocative about this subject
How much is your violin worth? It's greatest value is the joy it can bring to the player or listener. Devote yourself to the instrument and it will reward you amply. Or donate it to a worthy student.
Average Ratings
Recent Reviews from Users
K = Knowledgeability C = Clarity of Response T = Timeliness P = Politeness| User | Date | K | C | T | P | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kim | 11/24/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thanks for the thorough response. I will ..... |
| Mandy | 11/14/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thank you |
| Barbara | 11/02/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thank you so much for your speedy ..... |
Recent Answers from Bill Alpert
2009-11-24 sharp vibrato--ahh!!:
Comments from adjudicators of auditions and competitions can indeed provide useful feedback about your playing. This is especially true if different judges have echoed the same comments. The fact that
2009-11-24 violin my finger:
The fourth finger (the pinky) as always the most challenging to play on a string instrument. It's the shortest and weakest finger, and hardest to vibrate. Still, there's no "trick" to using your fourth
2009-11-18 Left arm pain from Violin:
Ben, there's no way I can know what the problem is from here. Everyone has a chin rest and shoulder pad. You may have the wrong chin rest. You may not even need a shoulder pad. Or the one you have might
2009-11-05 violin tone:
At once bright and brilliant, then dark and brooding. As unique as your fingerprint, yet fickle as your mood. Immutable as physics but as variable as the weather. Change your strings, you'll transform
2009-11-02 Learning to Play Violin at 58:
Short answer is YES! I've worked with students into their 60s and 70s. I'm 54 years old, and still learn more about the violin each time I pick it up. Everyone brings a set of expectations with such
Answers by Expert:
©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.