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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.

Yes. The Levels must be taken sequentially, and it is recommended to have three months in between each Level for the application of Paul Rolland String Pedagogy.

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?

Click here to register.  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 TEACHER (“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 13 - 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

•  Submission of Journal notes on: Instruction sessions, The Teaching of Action in String Playing chapters and films, and Low String and Rhythm videos

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

  • WHAT MATERIALS DO I NEED TO HAVE FOR THE LEVEL 3 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, and the Teacher Books 1 and 2, by Stanley Fletcher with design by Paul Rolland. 

  4. A journal 

  5. Your primary bowed string instrument

  6. 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. Reading and taking notes on specific chapters and films in The Teaching of Action in String Playing should be done before instruction starts. 

The detailed curriculum is available after the registration process 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 pupil of your choice

• Submission of a journal of notes from the chapters, films, videos, and sessions.

  • 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.

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