FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
LEVEL 3
-
HOW DOES LEVEL 3 DIFFER FROM LEVEL 2?
Level 3 Endorsement includes continued in-depth study with extensive individualized work with a mentor in a small group setting, as well as a focus on each candidate’s own playing.
-
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.
-
DO I NEED TO HAVE THE LEVEL 2 ENDORSEMENT BEFORE TAKING LEVEL 3?
Yes. The Levels must be taken sequentially, and it is recommended to allow three months between Levels for the application of Paul Rolland String Pedagogy in the candidate's teaching and playing.
Level 2 Endorsement is a prerequisite to apply for Level 3.
-
WHAT TOPICS WILL LEVEL 3 INCLUDE?
​
-
Playing at the Middle of the Bow
-
Extending the Bow Stroke
-
Developing Finger Movement
-
Basic Shifting Movements
-
First Steps in Vibrato Teaching
-
Remedial Teaching
-
HOW DO I REGISTER?
The Level 3 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 3, click here.
-
WHO WILL MY MENTOR BE?
Your mentor will be assigned from a list of experienced mentors. A different mentor is assigned for each Endorsement Level.
-
HOW MUCH TIME IS REQUIRED FOR LEVEL 3 ENDORSEMENT TRAINING SESSIONS?
The number of hours is approximately 15. The session schedule is determined by the mentor in consultation with the candidates.
-
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR LEVEL 3?
• 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 DO I NEED TO HAVE FOR THE LEVEL 3 SESSIONS?
-
The Teaching of Action in String Playing (book) by Paul Rolland with Marla Mutschler
-
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
-
New Tunes for Strings, Book 1 and New Tunes for Strings, Book 2 for your instrument, and the Teacher Books 1 and 2, by Stanley Fletcher with design by Paul Rolland.
-
Your primary bowed string instrument
-
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 3 for Cello and for Bass, are part of the curriculum.
-
MUST I PASS A TEST TO BE GRANTED A LEVEL 3 ENDORSEMENT?
The Final Evaluation for Level 3 consists of:
• A Teaching Evaluation that includes teaching two Rolland Actions, one left hand and one right hand, to a student of your choice
• Submission of the post-instruction journal
-
WILL I RECEIVE A CERTIFICATE UPON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF LEVEL 3 ENDORSEMENT?
You will receive feedback on your Final Evaluation after all requirements are fulfilled and be awarded a digital Certificate of Level 3 Endorsement. You will be listed on the Society's website as having Level 3 Endorsement.