Simply Violin Scales Book Review - Krista Broadway Swider
In her “Simply Violin,” scale and arpeggio book, Lisa Berman offers both student and teacher a rare opportunity to choose a method of fingering. One may utilize either the included fingerings, (based on Carl Flesch’s Scale Method), or write in alternative fingerings in the ample space provided. Ms. Berman gives the student a remarkable value by presenting one, two and three octave scales and arpeggios all in one book. This allows a student to use one scale book for most or all of their technical training, saving money and time that might otherwise go to purchasing additional scale books.
My favorite part of this scale book is the back inside cover! Here Ms. Berman presents us with a detailed, full-color diagram of the Circle of Fifths, designed by Dan Freiberg. In this diagram, each major key is clearly labeled and printed in a separate color. Minor keys, sharps and flats, and overlap key signatures are also well-presented. I love having the circle of fifths at my finger tips any time, but especially when my students are working on their scales.
I highly recommend the Simply Violin Scale and Arpeggio book. I believe students who are searching for a scale book based on a sound technical foundation will find that Simply Violin is well written, well thought out, and based on the technical advice of Carl Flesch himself. Most importantly, perhaps, is that this book is incredibly accessible. It is one book that a teacher can recommend to a student at any level. I applaud Ms. Berman’s work and encourage violin teachers and students everywhere to take advantage of this wonderful book.
