The Wohlfahrt Opus 45 violin etudes are absolute classics for violin students moving into the intermediate range of playing. This includes students currently working on ASTA level 3-4, ABRSM level 3-4, Royal Conservatory level 3-4, and Suzuki Book 3-4.
The Wohlfahrt Opus 45 violin etudes are a collection of 60 etudes, but it is divided into 2 Volumes. Volume 1 includes etudes 1-30, it stays exclusively in 1st position, and utilizes melodic and rhythmic patters that a low intermediate player can tackle. Volume 2 includes etudes 31-60, it utilizes 3rd position heavily, and features more complicated rhythms and bowings.
Studying Volume 1 will accomplish several magical things for the Level 3 violin student. It will
What? Are the Wohlfahrt Opus 45 etudes magical? How do they teach violin students all of those things? This is where I make a shameless plug for my upcoming Wohlfahrt Opus 45 Volume 1 online etude class, which will be opening very soon.
This class will ensure that you attain the skills listed above, and it will help you learn to think like a teacher, problem solve like Einstein, and practice like a Ninja!
And now, you can enroll in the online course that will teach you in a very systematic way how to approach etude practice using this beloved classic, Wohlfahrt Opus 45 etudes as the curriculum. This course will revolutionize the way you think about practicing, etude study, and violin technique!
Happy Etuding!
My daughter started her viola lesson about two months ago. Her teacher gave her Wohlfahrt while she was playing Suzuki book Vol 1 No.10. It seemed very easy to her because she can pass two etudes within a week. She’s older (9) so coordination is better and also she played flute and piano few years before starting viola which might help her read the music. It’s possible to start with Wohlfahrt in Suzuki book 1 if the kid is ready.
I want to know more about what these etudes can give her so google bring me here. Thank you for the helpful information!
Wohlfahrt is horrific 👎🏻!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wohlfahrt is wonderful! It depends on how it is presented to you!
Just remember: etudes are like vitamins for violinists….and you have to take them if you want to grow big and strong!
Wohlfahrt ist still horrible music, but it’s at least useful for learning the violin 🤨🎻
Hi Auri!
I LOVE Wohlfahrt! I find it pleasant. (but I understand that lots of people don’t like it)
I’m glad you can appreciate its usefulness! Keep up the great work!
I started Wohlfahrt no. 1 while doing Suzuki book 1. I stopped Wohlfahrt for about a year, and am now ready to jump into book 3. I’d think students in Suzuki book 2 may be able to play some of the etudes. This article was quite helpful. Thank you!
Hi Emily
WOW…..Wohlfahrt 1 during Suzuki Book 1? That’s ambitious.
I suppose with the right support and instruction, it could be done!
I appreciate your insight. So, in your opinion, DEFINITELY students in Book 3 are ready for Wohlfahrt. (IF they read music…..and if they don’t, it’s great material to practice on!)
In my humble opinion, this study will be invaluable for all of us violinists wantabees. Metronome mastery is essential as is the rapid sight reading and 3/4, 2/4, 4/4, etc timing. Being able to know (feel) the differences is something I personally am looking forward to learning and knowing that I am performing the timing correctly.I hope syncopation will be touched on as it feel some what of a mystery to me as of this moment.
I am encouraging all to jump on board and let’s elevate ourselves from violinists wannabees to becoming more accomplished.
Hi Diana!
You will definitely benefit from the metronome lessons, and if that is a “weakness” of yours, then you will want to include Metronome and rhythm work as part of EVERY etude in the book. (give yourself extra doses) For other students, they will need to supplement other areas…..like intonation, or tone, or straight bow. THis is the perfect opportunity to address any deficiencies your playing may have! Have fun!