Traditional Fiddle - Mastering the Art with Gina le Faux
Possibly the most comprehensive DVD on the art of traditional fiddle playing!
On this DVD Gina le Faux gives us an insight into the art of Traditional Fiddle playing. Gina takes us through the basics of posture before delving in such areas as bow control, articulation and ornamentation and by using well known traditional melodies she explores many of the secrets of improving your fiddle technique.
Suitable for all standards of fiddler this DVD looks into:
Holding the fiddle and the bow
Posture and Setup
Phrasing
Ornamentation
Rhythm
Building up a tune
Packed with hints, tips and inspiration you will want to watch this DVD again and again!
I have known Gina for many years
now, her playing has never ceased
to thrill me. She is that kind of a
player: her understanding of the
fiddle, its place in the tradition,
and the many different styles that
enrich these islands are bolstered
not only by an enviable technique
but also by a practical knowledge
of the instrument. She is a maker
and repairer of fine violins. All
this, as you can imagine, goes a
long way towards the reasons why
she is a unique teacher. Oh, and I
nearly forgot, she sings and writes
many a mean tune and pithy
song. Give us your pleasure, Gina!
Dave Swarbrick 2007
Gina Le Faux is recognised as one of the great British fiddle players today. An
international performer and teacher, she has toured extensively in Britain, Europe
and the USA working with many of the finest players and bands including John
Kirkpatrick, Martin Carthy, Martin Simpson and Dick Gaughan and was a member
of Hom Bru, Shegui, Red Shift and The Tannahill Weavers. She has released 6 solo
albums and appeared on many albums with other artists.
Gina was born and raised in Liverpool and has been playing traditional dance
music for most of her life. She was the last pupil of the late James Carmichael of
Ballymena, traditional fiddle player and singer, and combines her own flair and
skill with a great understanding of the skills of traditional fiddle playing passed
down from generations past. Her interest in 18th century dance music and the
techniques used led Shirley Collins to describe her as a “Baroque Fiddler”.
She is renowned as one of the UK’s leading teachers of traditional fiddle and has
run workshops for all of the major teaching organisations in England including
Folkworks, Folk South West, Hands OnMusic and The Yorkshire Dales Workshops.
Her clear and concise analysis of technique enables her to bring great poise and
style to her playing and she helps bring the best out of her students playing.
