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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS  
LEVEL 2

Level 2 Endorsement includes more in-depth study with a mentor, where each attendee (the “candidate”) receives individualized work in a small group setting.

  • HOW MANY LEVELS ARE THERE AND HOW ARE THEY OFFERED?

There are four Levels of Endorsement offered at least once a year, in an online format.

Yes.  The Levels must be taken sequentially and it is recommended to allow at least three months between Levels for the application of Paul Rolland String Pedagogy in the candidate's teaching and playing.  

Attending a week-long online or in-person Paul Rolland String Pedagogy Workshop with 17-20 hours of content (earning Level 1 Endorsement) is a prerequisite to apply for Level 2. 

  • WHAT TOPICS WILL LEVEL 2 INCLUDE?

  • Principles of Movement in String Playing

  • Establishing Instrument Hold

  • Learning to Hold the Bow

  • Principles of Left Hand and Finger Action

  • Establishing Left Hand and Finger Placement in First Position

  • HOW DO I REGISTER?

The Level 2 application is available here. Space will be limited. The deadline to register is three weeks before the beginning of the training.  For a timeline of Level 2 click here.

  • WHO WILL MY MENTOR BE?

Your mentor will be assigned from a list of experienced mentors.  The candidate’s background and Rolland Pedagogy experiences are considered in assigning the mentor.  A different mentor will be assigned for each Endorsement Level.

  • HOW MUCH TIME IS REQUIRED FOR THE ENDORSEMENT TRAINING SESSIONS?

The number of hours is approximately 13. The session schedule is determined by the mentor in consultation with the candidates. 

  • WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR LEVEL 2?

•  Submission of your pre- and post-instruction playing videos

•  A teaching evaluation before your peers, using the same instrument as your student

•  Submission of a post-instruction journal

  • WHAT MATERIALS ARE REQUIRED FOR THE LEVEL 2 SESSIONS?

1.  The Teaching of Action in String Playing (book) by Paul Rolland with Marla Mutschler

2.  The Teaching of Action in String Playing (films) by Paul Rolland, available on Vimeo for purchase or rental.                The films are also available on DVD by emailing peterrolland@cox.net

3.  New Tunes for Strings, Book 1 and New Tunes for Strings, Book 2  for your instrument by Stanley Fletcher                 with design by Paul Rolland

4.  Your primary bowed string instrument

5.  A good internet connection and video capabilities.  Headphones or speakers are suggested for optimal  listening 

  • IS THERE PREPARATION EXPECTED AHEAD OF THE START OF SESSIONS?

Making your pre-instruction video is required. Studying specific chapters and films in The Teaching of Action in String Playing should be done before instruction starts.  Detailed guidelines and curriculum are available after the registration is completed.

  • WILL VIOLIN, VIOLA, CELLO, AND BASS ALL BE ADDRESSED?

The pedagogy is applicable to all stringed instruments. Two videos, Level 2 for Cello and for Bass, are part of the curriculum.

  • MUST I PASS A TEST TO BE GRANTED A LEVEL 2 ENDORSEMENT?

   The Final Evaluation for Level 2 consists of:

   •  A Teaching Evaluation that includes teaching one Rolland Action to a student of your choice

   •  Submission of the post-instruction journal

  • WILL I RECEIVE A CERTIFICATE UPON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF LEVEL 2 ENDORSEMENT?

You will receive feedback on your Final Evaluation after all requirements are fulfilled and be awarded a digital Certificate of Level 2 Endorsement.  You will be listed on the Society’s website as having Level 2 Endorsement.

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