Behind the Screens

Want to learn some standard excerpts with me and Akiko?
Click the link below to let us know about your audition plans for this spring, and we'll send you our markings on three major excerpts: Brahms 2, Mendelssohn Scherzo, and Don Juan.
bit.ly/BEHINDTHESCREENS
Then join us this Saturday, March 11, at 1 PM PST for a live session we're calling 'Behind the Screens'.

[@myrona.gilmorejr.]

I like how you played your wife's music because she didn't practice your part, but you had already practiced hers. That's love

[@hamwhacker]

This is so wonderful and relaxing (therapeutic!) to listen to. Giving us a comfortable feel for how it is to be a pro and play your best in the potentially overwhelming circumstances of an audition.
I am now a firm believer that the listener(s) in the audience WANT you to play well. It helps to think that way and focus on taking them on the musical journey WITH YOU rather than facing them nervously like they are some kind of judge or enemy. Life is too short NOT to do your best. Thanks.

[@nicholashill9302]

Caught up with you both on Sunday always fun and informative thanks.. 👍

[@natesviolin]

Our pleasure!

[@Wilescape]

I’m already playing better, thanks. Very helpful what you explained through the Bartok concerto, Akiko. I totally understand from your demonstration, and I’m going to try to achieve it everywhere. It’s so helpful to see and hear playing at the required level. Very inspiring for me. Thanks to both of you! 🙏❤️

[@natesviolin]

Thanks so much for joining live too!

[@violinhunter2]

True story: I've auditioned four times in my life and won all four. I simply played the way I always play: in tune, rhythmically precise (mostly strict tempo - no rushing and not too fast nor too slow), and with my own sound (which I can't seem to get rid of - it's just there.) I think I was just lucky all four times. Two of those auditions were without a screen! (I think my greatest asset is my sound - I have been told it is very appealing. How do I get that sound? I have no clue.)

[@jason101other]

Four auditions for what orchestras? Are we talking the community orchestra or the Cleveland Orchestra?

[@violinhunter2]

@@jason101other Yeah, kiddie orchestras, of course.

[@hamwhacker]

Well done you!

[@ShakehGhoukasian-vh5cp]

Hi Nate