"THE STRAD" LIBRARY No. I.
Crown 8vo., Cloth, 2/6, Post Free, 2/9.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY EDITION is the only Authorised Edition of
Technics of Violin Playing
ON
JOACHIM'S METHOD
BY
CARL COURVOISIER,
With Folding Plates, containing Fifteen Illustrations.
LETTER FROM DR. JOACHIM.
[COPY.]
My Dear Mr. Courvoisier: I have read the book on Violin Playing you have sent me, and have to congratulate you sincerely on the manner in which you have performed a most difficult task, i.e., to describe the best way of arriving at a correct manner of playing the violin.
It cannot but be welcome to thoughtful teachers, who reflect on the method of our art, and I hope that your work will prove useful to many students.
Believe me, my dear Mr. Courvoisier, to be most faithfully yours,
JOSEPH JOACHIM.
Berlin, November 3rd, 1894.
The New and Revised Edition of "Technics of Violin Playing," issued by The Strad, is the only authorised edition of my work. The several English Editions which have all appeared without my knowledge are incomplete and faulty.
CARL COURVOISIER.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. II.
Crown 8vo., Cloth, 2/6, Post Free, 2/9.
HOW TO STUDY THE VIOLIN
By J. T. CARRODUS.
CONTENTS.
Strings and Tuning. The Bow and Bowing. Faults and their Correction. Scales and their Importance. Course of Study. Advice on Elementary Matters. Concerning Harmonics, Octaves, etc. Orchestral Playing. Some Experiences as a Soloist. With full page portraits of Carrodus, Molique, Paganini, Spohr, Sivori, De Beriot, Blagrove and Sainton, and a photo-reproduction of Dr. Spohr's testimonial to Carrodus.
"An interesting series of articles 'How to Study the Violin,' which Carrodus contributed to The Strad, and completed only a week or two before his death, have now been collected in cheap book form. The technical hints to violin students, which are practical, plainly worded, and from such a pen most valuable."—Daily News.
"But a few weeks before his sudden death the most distinguished of native violinists completed in The Strad a series of chats to students of the instrument associated with his name. These chats are now re-issued, with a sympathetic preface and instructive annotations. All who care to listen to what were virtually the last words of such a conscientious teacher will recognise the pains taken by Carrodus to render every detail as clear to the novice as to the advanced pupil. Pleasant gossip concerning provincial festivals at which Carrodus was for many years 'leader' of the orchestra, ends a little volume worthy a place in musical libraries both for its practical value and as a memento of the life-work of an artist universally esteemed."—Daily Chronicle.
"It is surely, hardly necessary to direct the attention of students to the unique value of the hints and advice given by so experienced and accomplished a virtuoso as the late Mr. Carrodus, so that it only remains to state that the 'Recollections' make delightful reading, and that the book, as a whole, is as entertaining as it is instructive. The value of the brochure is enhanced by an excellent portrait of Mr. Carrodus, as well as of a number of other violin worthies, and the printing, paper, and get up generally are good as could possibly be."—Musical Answers.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. III.
Crown 8vo, Cloth, 2/6, Post Free, 2/9.
THE BOW
Its History, Manufacture and Use
BY
HENRY SAINT-GEORGE.
With Full Page Illustrations (exact size) by Photo Process.
MONS. EMILE SAURET writes—"I have read it with great interest, and think that it supplies a real want in giving musicians such an excellent description of all matters referring to this important instrument."
SIGNOR GUIDO PAPINI writes—"Thanks so much for your splendid and interesting book. You are quite successful and all the artists and amateurs are indebted to you for so exact and correct a 'Texte' on the subject."
ADOLF BRODSKY writes—"I am delighted with the book and find it very instructive, even for those who think to know everything about the bow. It is very original and at times very amusing. No violinist should miss the opportunity to buy it."
THE TIMES—"A useful treatise on the Bow, in which the history, manufacture and use of the bow are discussed with considerable technical knowledge."
DAILY TELEGRAPH—"To the student there is much of interest in the work, which has the advantage of being copiously illustrated."
DAILY NEWS—"This book seems practically to exhaust its subject."
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. IV.
Crown 8vo., Cloth, 5/-, Post Free, 5/4.
CELEBRATED VIOLINISTS:
PAST AND PRESENT,
Translated from the German of
A. EHRLICH,
And Edited with Notes and Additions by
ROBIN H. LEGGE.
WITH EIGHTY-NINE PORTRAITS.
PRESS NOTICES.
"Those who love their fiddles better than their fellows, and who treasure up every detail that can be found and recorded about their favourite and cherished players, will not fail to provide themselves with a copy of this book."—Musical Opinion.
"This book of 280 pages is a most interesting and valuable addition to the violinist's library. It contains 89 biographical sketches of well-known artists, ancient and modern, of all nations. This is not intended to be a perfect dictionary of violinists; the aim of the Editor of the present volume being merely to give a few more up-to-date details concerning some of the greatest of stringed instrument players, and we must concede that no name of the first importance has been omitted. Germany is represented by 21 names, Italy by 13, France by 10, England by 4, Bohemia by 8, Belgium by 7, and the fair sex by seven well-known ladies, such as Teresina Tua, TherÉse and Marie Milanollo, Lady HallÉ, Marie Soldat, Gabrielle Wietrowetz, and Arma Senkrah. Altogether this is most agreeable reading to the numerous army of violinists, both professionals and amateurs, and after careful examination we can find nothing but praise for this translation into English of a book well known on the Continent."—The Piano, Organ and Music Trades Journal.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. V.
Crown 8vo., Cloth, 2/6, Post Free, 2/9.
TECHNICS OF
VIOLONCELLO PLAYING
BY
E. VAN DER STRAETEN.
COPIOUSLY ILLUSTRATED.
Copy of Letter received by the Author from the great 'cellist, SIGNOR ALFRED PIATTI.
Cadenabbia, Lake of Como, March 9th, 1898.
Dear Sir,—I received the book you kindly sent me on "The Technics of Violoncello Playing," which I found excellent, particularly for beginners, which naturally was your scope. With many thanks for kindly remembering an old ex-violoncello player.
Believe me, yours sincerely,
ALFRED PIATTI.
Copy of Letter received by the Author from the eminent 'cellist, HERR DAVID POPPER.
Budapest, February 22nd, 1898.
Dear Sir,—In sending me your book on "The Technics of Violoncello Playing" you have given me a real and true pleasure. I know of no work, tutors and studies not excepted, which presents so much valuable material, so much that is absolutely to the point, avoiding—I might say, on principle—all that is superfluous and dispensable. Every earnest thinking violoncello student will in future make your book his own and thereby receive hints which will further and complete the instructions of his master.
I congratulate you and ourselves most heartily on the new violoncello book. With kind regards, Yours most sincerely,
DAVID POPPER.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. VI.
Crown 8vo., Cloth, 2/6, Post Free, 2/9.
VIOLIN PLAYING
BY
JOHN DUNN.
CONTENTS
Introductory—Qualities indispensable to the ideal Violinist—Hints on the Choice of a Teacher—Some Tricks of pretending professors exposed.
On the Choice of a Violin and Bow—Advice regarding general adjustment and repairs.
On the Choice of Strings—Stringing the Instrument and keeping the Pegs in Order.
On the General Posture—The manner of holding the Violin and Bow as accepted by the leading artists of the day.
On Fingering Generally—The various positions—Scales recommended—The Modern Orchestral "Principal" or (so-called) Leader.
On Gliding—Special Characteristics of some of the most Eminent Players.
Double Stopping—The main difficulty in Double Stopping—How to gain Independence of Finger.
Bowings—Smooth Bowings—Solid Staccato—Spiccato—Spring Bow—Mixed Bowings.
Tone Production—Character of Tone—Rules and Conditions necessary to produce a good tone—Style and Expression.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. VII.
Crown 8vo., Cloth, 2/6, Post Free, 2/9.
Chats to 'Cello Students
BY
ARTHUR BROADLEY.
"Musicians, devotees of the 'cello in particular, will welcome the latest volume of The 'Strad Library,' 'Chats to 'Cello Students,' by Arthur Broadley.... Mr. Broadley not only knows what he is talking about, but has practised what he says. From the choice of an instrument to finished delivery and orchestral playing, 'Chats to 'Cello Students' leaves nothing undiscussed. The treatment is simple and practical. The exhaustive chapter on 'bowing' should be an invaluable aid to students. In the last chapter of his book, 'On Delivery and Style' Mr. Broadley has given a lucid expression to a subject which has sadly needed voicing."—The Tribune, Nuneaton.
"Is a brightly written little volume filled with practical information for those who seek to bring out the wealth of expression of which the violoncello is capable. The instruction is presented in homely, common-sense fashion, and there are upwards of fifty examples in music type to illustrate the author's meaning."—Lloyd's Weekly.
"Every kind of bowing and fingering, the portamento, harmonic effects, arpeggios and their evolution from various chords, are all ably treated, and the work concludes with a few remarks on orchestral playing which are of especial interest."—Musical News.
"As a writer on the technique of his instrument Mr. Broadley is known all over the world, perhaps his most successful work being a little book published by The Strad, 'Chats to 'Cello Students.'"—The Violinist.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. VIII.
Crown 8vo., Cloth, 2/6, Post Free, 2/9.
ANTONIO STRADIVARI
BY
HORACE PETHERICK.
Of the Music Jury, International Inventions Exhibition, South Kensington, 1885; International Exhibition, Edinburgh, 1890; Expert in Law Courts, 1891; President of the Cremona Society.
ILLUSTRATED BY THE AUTHOR.
"This is the history of the life-work of the great Italian stringed musical instrument maker.... There is a most interesting analysis of Stradivari's method of mechanical construction which again is illustrated by original drawings from the many Strads which it has been Mr. Petherick's privilege to examine. All lovers of the king of instruments will read this delightful little volume."—Reynolds.
"Among makers of violins Stradivari perhaps occupies the premier position, and this account of his work, designs, and variations in finish of details will afford pleasure to many readers."—Morning Post.
"This is a monograph which all students of the violin will be happy to possess. The author is a connoisseur and expert, and his account of the great Cremonese master and his life-work, is singularly well and clearly told, whilst the technical descriptions and diagrams cannot fail to interest everyone who has fallen under the spell of the violin.... Mr. Petherick traces the career of Stradivari from his earliest insight into the mysteries of the craft to his highest achievements. Numerous illustrations lend attraction to the volume, not the least being a view of Stradivari's atelier, from a painting by Rinaldi, the sketch of which was made on the premises."—Music.
"Mr. Petherick is well known in the musical world as a violin expert with a special knowledge of the instruments made by the Cremonese master, whose biography he has here given us. He tells us how the master worked, what his pupils did, and where their work differs from that of their preceptor. In fact, the volume is as much a dissertation on the violins of Stradivari as a biography of the master, and is full of deeply interesting matter."—Lloyds.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. IX.
Crown 8vo., Cloth, 5/-, Post Free, 5/4.
VIOLIN MAKING
BY
WALTER H. MAYSON,
With Thirty-one Full-page PHOTO ETCHINGS,
Illustrating the process of Violin-making in every stage—from the rough slab of wood to the finished Instrument.
The text is written by an Actual Violin Maker, in a very clear and lucid style.
"'Popular lecture' style, with photographic illustrations."—The Times.
"A feature of the book is the clearness of the illustrations."—Morning Post.
"Describes a very fascinating art from start to finish."—Morning Leader.
"This new booklet, on how to make a violin, is an admirable exposition of methods. Mr. Mayson avoids learned terminology. He uses the simplest English, and goes straight to the point. He begins by showing the young learner how to choose the best wood for the violin that is to be. Throughout a whole chatty, perfectly simple chapter, he discourses on the back. A separate chapter is devoted to the modelling of the back, and a third to its 'working out.' The art of sound-holes, ribs, neck, fingerboard, the scroll, the belly. Among the illustrations is one showing the tools which the author himself uses in the making of his instruments. To learners of the well-known Manchester maker's delicate art we commend this little volume."—Daily News.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. X.
Crown 8vo., Cloth, 2/6, Post Free, 2/9.
(Dedicated, by permission, to Dr. JOSEPH JOACHIM)
THE VIOLIN MUSIC OF
BEETHOVEN,
Critically discussed, and Illustrated with over
FIFTY MUSICAL EXAMPLES,
BY
J. MATTHEWS.
? The book contains analytical and historical notes upon the Chamber Music of Beethoven, in which the violin takes part as a solo instrument, with some account of the various editions of the principal works; Beethoven's method of working, as shown by his Sketch Books, etc. It is dedicated to Dr. Joachim, who has furnished some notes respecting the stringed instruments possessed by Beethoven.
Extract from Author's Preface:—
"Young students often suppose that they ought to admire every work which proceeds from a great genius; an attempt therefore has been made to convey some idea of the relative art-value and importance of the various compositions discussed in these pages. For between the best work of any man and his least inspired, there is a wide difference. Certainly nothing annoyed the great master more than to hear his least mature works praised, especially at a time when many of his greatest creations were too little studied to be understood save by a few."
"Mr. John Matthews—dealing with Beethoven's music in pleasant fashion, and at not too great length—gives an historical account, and in many instances short analyses, with illustrations in music type of Beethoven's works for this instrument, and particularly the sonatas (to which considerable space is devoted), the trios, the quartets, and other compositions in which the master employed the violin. The book will be found by amateurs both interesting and instructive."—Daily News.
London:
"STRAD" OFFICE, 3, Green Terrace, Rosebery Avenue, E.C.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. I.
12mo., Cloth, 1.00.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY EDITION is the only Authorised Edition of
Technics of Violin Playing
ON
JOACHIM'S METHOD
BY
CARL COURVOISIER,
With Folding Plates, containing Fifteen Illustrations.
LETTER FROM DR. JOACHIM.
[COPY.]
My Dear Mr. Courvoisier: I have read the book on Violin Playing you have sent me, and have to congratulate you sincerely on the manner in which you have performed a most difficult task, i.e., to describe the best way of arriving at a correct manner of playing the violin.
It cannot but be welcome to thoughtful teachers, who reflect on the method of our art, and I hope that your work will prove useful to many students.
Believe me, my dear Mr. Courvoisier, to be most faithfully yours,
JOSEPH JOACHIM.
Berlin, November 3rd, 1894.
The New and Revised Edition of "Technics of Violin Playing," issued by The Strad, is the only authorised edition of my work. The several English Editions which have all appeared without my knowledge are incomplete and faulty.
CARL COURVOISIER.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. II.
12mo., Cloth, 1.00.
HOW TO STUDY THE VIOLIN
By J. T. CARRODUS.
CONTENTS.
Strings and Tuning. The Bow and Bowing. Faults and their Correction. Scales and their Importance. Course of Study. Advice on Elementary Matters. Concerning Harmonics, Octaves, etc. Orchestral Playing. Some Experiences as a Soloist. With full page portraits of Carrodus, Molique, Paganini, Spohr, Sivori, De Beriot, Blagrove and Sainton, and a photo-reproduction of Dr. Spohr's testimonial to Carrodus.
"An interesting series of articles 'How to Study the Violin,' which Carrodus contributed to The Strad, and completed only a week or two before his death, have now been collected in cheap book form. The technical hints to violin students, which are practical, plainly worded, and from such a pen most valuable."—Daily News.
"But a few weeks before his sudden death the most distinguished of native violinists completed in The Strad a series of chats to students of the instrument associated with his name. These chats are now re-issued, with a sympathetic preface and instructive annotations. All who care to listen to what were virtually the last words of such a conscientious teacher will recognise the pains taken by Carrodus to render every detail as clear to the novice as to the advanced pupil. Pleasant gossip concerning provincial festivals at which Carrodus was for many years 'leader' of the orchestra, ends a little volume worthy a place in musical libraries both for its practical value and as a memento of the life-work of an artist universally esteemed."—Daily Chronicle.
"It is surely, hardly necessary to direct the attention of students to the unique value of the hints and advice given by so experienced and accomplished a virtuoso as the late Mr. Carrodus, so that it only remains to state that the 'Recollections' make delightful reading, and that the book, as a whole, is as entertaining as it is instructive. The value of the brochure is enhanced by an excellent portrait of Mr. Carrodus, as well as of a number of other violin worthies, and the printing, paper, and get up generally are good as could possibly be."—Musical Answers.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. III.
12mo., Cloth, 1.00.
THE BOW
Its History, Manufacture and Use
BY
HENRY SAINT-GEORGE.
With Full Page Illustrations (exact size) by Photo Process.
MONS. EMILE SAURET writes—"I have read it with great interest, and think that it supplies a real want in giving musicians such an excellent description of all matters referring to this important instrument."
SIGNOR GUIDO PAPINI writes—"Thanks so much for your splendid and interesting book. You are quite successful and all the artists and amateurs are indebted to you for so exact and correct a 'Texte' on the subject."
ADOLF BRODSKY writes—"I am delighted with the book and find it very instructive, even for those who think to know everything about the bow. It is very original and at times very amusing. No violinist should miss the opportunity to buy it."
THE TIMES—"A useful treatise on the Bow, in which the history, manufacture and use of the bow are discussed with considerable technical knowledge."
DAILY TELEGRAPH—"To the student there is much of interest in the work, which has the advantage of being copiously illustrated."
DAILY NEWS—"This book seems practically to exhaust its subject."
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. IV.
12mo., Cloth, 2.00.
CELEBRATED VIOLINISTS:
PAST AND PRESENT,
Translated from the German of
A. EHRLICH,
And Edited with Notes and Additions by
ROBIN H. LEGGE.
WITH EIGHTY-NINE PORTRAITS.
PRESS NOTICES.
"Those who love their fiddles better than their fellows, and who treasure up every detail that can be found and recorded about their favourite and cherished players, will not fail to provide themselves with a copy of this book."—Musical Opinion.
"This book of 280 pages is a most interesting and valuable addition to the violinist's library. It contains 89 biographical sketches of well-known artists, ancient and modern, of all nations. This is not intended to be a perfect dictionary of violinists; the aim of the Editor of the present volume being merely to give a few more up-to-date details concerning some of the greatest of stringed instrument players, and we must concede that no name of the first importance has been omitted. Germany is represented by 21 names, Italy by 13, France by 10, England by 4, Bohemia by 8, Belgium by 7, and the fair sex by seven well-known ladies, such as Teresina Tua, TherÉse and Marie Milanollo, Lady HallÉ, Marie Soldat, Gabrielle Wietrowetz, and Arma Senkrah. Altogether this is most agreeable reading to the numerous army of violinists, both professionals and amateurs, and after careful examination we can find nothing but praise for this translation into English of a book well known on the Continent."—The Piano, Organ and Music Trades Journal.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. V.
12mo., Cloth, 1.00.
TECHNICS OF
VIOLONCELLO PLAYING
BY
E. VAN DER STRAETEN.
COPIOUSLY ILLUSTRATED.
Copy of Letter received by the Author from the great 'cellist, SIGNOR ALFRED PIATTI.
Cadenabbia, Lake of Como, March 9th, 1898.
Dear Sir,—I received the book you kindly sent me on "The Technics of Violoncello Playing," which I found excellent, particularly for beginners, which naturally was your scope. With many thanks for kindly remembering an old ex-violoncello player.
Believe me, yours sincerely,
ALFRED PIATTI.
Copy of Letter received by the Author from the eminent 'cellist, HERR DAVID POPPER.
Budapest, February 22nd, 1898.
Dear Sir,—In sending me your book on "The Technics of Violoncello Playing" you have given me a real and true pleasure. I know of no work, tutors and studies not excepted, which presents so much valuable material, so much that is absolutely to the point, avoiding—I might say, on principle—all that is superfluous and dispensable. Every earnest thinking violoncello student will in future make your book his own and thereby receive hints which will further and complete the instructions of his master.
I congratulate you and ourselves most heartily on the new violoncello book. With kind regards, Yours most sincerely,
DAVID POPPER.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. VI.
12mo., Cloth, 1.00.
VIOLIN PLAYING
BY
JOHN DUNN.
CONTENTS
Introductory—Qualities indispensable to the ideal Violinist—Hints on the Choice of a Teacher—Some Tricks of pretending professors exposed.
On the Choice of a Violin and Bow—Advice regarding general adjustment and repairs.
On the Choice of Strings—Stringing the Instrument and keeping the Pegs in Order.
On the General Posture—The manner of holding the Violin and Bow as accepted by the leading artists of the day.
On Fingering Generally—The various positions—Scales recommended—The Modern Orchestral "Principal" or (so-called) Leader.
On Gliding—Special Characteristics of some of the most Eminent Players.
Double Stopping—The main difficulty in Double Stopping—How to gain Independence of Finger.
Bowings—Smooth Bowings—Solid Staccato—Spiccato—Spring Bow—Mixed Bowings.
Tone Production—Character of Tone—Rules and Conditions necessary to produce a good tone—Style and Expression.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. VII.
12mo., Cloth, 1.00.
Chats to 'Cello Students
BY
ARTHUR BROADLEY.
"Musicians, devotees of the 'cello in particular, will welcome the latest volume of The 'Strad Library,' 'Chats to 'Cello Students,' by Arthur Broadley.... Mr. Broadley not only knows what he is talking about, but has practised what he says. From the choice of an instrument to finished delivery and orchestral playing, 'Chats to 'Cello Students' leaves nothing undiscussed. The treatment is simple and practical. The exhaustive chapter on 'bowing' should be an invaluable aid to students. In the last chapter of his book, 'On Delivery and Style' Mr. Broadley has given a lucid expression to a subject which has sadly needed voicing."—The Tribune, Nuneaton.
"Is a brightly written little volume filled with practical information for those who seek to bring out the wealth of expression of which the violoncello is capable. The instruction is presented in homely, common-sense fashion, and there are upwards of fifty examples in music type to illustrate the author's meaning."—Lloyd's Weekly.
"Every kind of bowing and fingering, the portamento, harmonic effects, arpeggios and their evolution from various chords, are all ably treated, and the work concludes with a few remarks on orchestral playing which are of especial interest."—Musical News.
"As a writer on the technique of his instrument Mr. Broadley is known all over the world, perhaps his most successful work being a little book published by The Strad, 'Chats to 'Cello Students.'"—The Violinist.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. VIII.
12mo., cloth, 1.00.
ANTONIO STRADIVARI
BY
HORACE PETHERICK.
Of the Music Jury, International Inventions Exhibition, South Kensington, 1885; International Exhibition, Edinburgh, 1890; Expert in Law Courts, 1891; President of the Cremona Society.
ILLUSTRATED BY THE AUTHOR.
"This is the history of the life-work of the great Italian stringed musical instrument maker.... There is a most interesting analysis of Stradivari's method of mechanical construction which again is illustrated by original drawings from the many Strads which it has been Mr. Petherick's privilege to examine. All lovers of the king of instruments will read this delightful little volume."—Reynolds.
"Among makers of violins Stradivari perhaps occupies the premier position, and this account of his work, designs, and variations in finish of details will afford pleasure to many readers."—Morning Post.
"This is a monograph which all students of the violin will be happy to possess. The author is a connoisseur and expert, and his account of the great Cremonese master and his life-work, is singularly well and clearly told, whilst the technical descriptions and diagrams cannot fail to interest everyone who has fallen under the spell of the violin.... Mr. Petherick traces the career of Stradivari from his earliest insight into the mysteries of the craft to his highest achievements. Numerous illustrations lend attraction to the volume, not the least being a view of Stradivari's atelier, from a painting by Rinaldi, the sketch of which was made on the premises."—Music.
"Mr. Petherick is well known in the musical world as a violin expert with a special knowledge of the instruments made by the Cremonese master, whose biography he has here given us. He tells us how the master worked, what his pupils did, and where their work differs from that of their preceptor. In fact, the volume is as much a dissertation on the violins of Stradivari as a biography of the master, and is full of deeply interesting matter."—Lloyds.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. IX.
12mo., Cloth, 2.00.
VIOLIN MAKING
BY
WALTER H. MAYSON,
With Thirty-one Full-page PHOTO ETCHINGS,
Illustrating the process of Violin-making in every stage—from the rough slab of wood to the finished Instrument.
The text is written by an Actual Violin Maker, in a very clear and lucid style.
"'Popular lecture' style, with photographic illustrations."—The Times.
"A feature of the book is the clearness of the illustrations."—Morning Post.
"Describes a very fascinating art from start to finish."—Morning Leader.
"This new booklet, on how to make a violin, is an admirable exposition of methods. Mr. Mayson avoids learned terminology. He uses the simplest English, and goes straight to the point. He begins by showing the young learner how to choose the best wood for the violin that is to be. Throughout a whole chatty, perfectly simple chapter, he discourses on the back. A separate chapter is devoted to the modelling of the back, and a third to its 'working out.' The art of sound-holes, ribs, neck, fingerboard, the scroll, the belly. Among the illustrations is one showing the tools which the author himself uses in the making of his instruments. To learners of the well-known Manchester maker's delicate art we commend this little volume."—Daily News.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. X.
12mo., Cloth, 1.00.
(Dedicated, by permission, to Dr. JOSEPH JOACHIM)
THE VIOLIN MUSIC OF
BEETHOVEN,
Critically discussed, and Illustrated with over
FIFTY MUSICAL EXAMPLES,
BY
J. MATTHEWS.
? The book contains analytical and historical notes upon the Chamber Music of Beethoven, in which the violin takes part as a solo instrument, with some account of the various editions of the principal works; Beethoven's method of working, as shown by his Sketch Books, etc. It is dedicated to Dr. Joachim, who has furnished some notes respecting the stringed instruments possessed by Beethoven.
Extract from Author's Preface:—
"Young students often suppose that they ought to admire every work which proceeds from a great genius; an attempt therefore has been made to convey some idea of the relative art-value and importance of the various compositions discussed in these pages. For between the best work of any man and his least inspired, there is a wide difference. Certainly nothing annoyed the great master more than to hear his least mature works praised, especially at a time when many of his greatest creations were too little studied to be understood save by a few."
"Mr. John Matthews—dealing with Beethoven's music in pleasant fashion, and at not too great length—gives an historical account, and in many instances short analyses, with illustrations in music type of Beethoven's works for this instrument, and particularly the sonatas (to which considerable space is devoted), the trios, the quartets, and other compositions in which the master employed the violin. The book will be found by amateurs both interesting and instructive."—Daily News.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, NO. XI.
12mo., Cloth, 1.00.
Advice to Pupils & Teachers
of the Violin,
BY
BASIL ALTHAUS.
Strongly recommended by AUGUST WILHELMJ & GUIDO PAPINI.
London, March 18th, 1903.
Dear Mr. Althaus,
I read your book, "Advice to Pupils and Teachers of the Violin," with great interest, and find it very useful. Hoping your book will meet with the success it deserves.
I am, yours sincerely,
AUGUST WILHELMJ.
London, Feb. 19th, 1903.
Dear Mr. Althaus,
I have read with interest your admirable book, "Advice to Pupils and Teachers of the Violin." I have no hesitation in recommending it as an indispensable work to all aspiring violinists and teachers. Your remarks on the acquirement of the various bowings, with the many musical examples, are excellent. I know of no work on this important subject so explicit and exhaustive. Wishing your book the great success it deserves,
Believe me, yours sincerely,
GUIDO PAPINI.
"I have read the 157 pages that go to form the book in question, and can say, without any misgiving, that Mr. Althaus has successfully achieved what he set out to do."—Musical Standard.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. XII.
12mo., Cloth, 1.00.
BY
HORACE PETHERICK.
Of the Music Jury, International Inventions Exhibition, South Kensington, 1885; International Exhibition, Edinburgh, 1890; Expert in Law Courts, 1891; President of the Cremona Society.
WITH FIFTY ILLUSTRATIONS BY THE AUTHOR.
CONTENTS.
The proper sort of glue—Its preparation and use—Loose fingerboards—Injuries to the scroll—Insertion of fresh wood—Fracture of peg-box and shell—Worn peg-holes—Refilling or boring same—Grafting—Lengthening the neck—Treatment of worm-holes—Fixing on graft on neck—Ways of removing the upper table and the neck—Cleansing the interior—Closing of cracks in upper table—Getting parts together that apparently do not fit—Treatment of warped lower table—Repairing old end blocks by new ones—Matching wood for large cracks—Replacing lost portions—Repairs to purfling—Removal of a fixed sound-post—Fitting a fresh part of worm-eaten rib—Lining a thin back—Fixing the bar—Varnishing, etc., etc.
"The author is a man of wide experience, and with him it is a labour of love, so that few more suitable hands could be found for the task. To him fiddles are quite human in their characteristics, needing a 'physician within beck and call,' and developing symptoms capable of temporary alleviation or permanent cure, as the case may be, and no remedial measures are left undescribed."—Musical News.
"Mr. Petherick is a man of wide experience in violins, so his hints about the treatment and care of the instrument are invaluable. His imaginary interviews are both clever and amusing, and, moreover, contain useful information of what to do, and avoid, in the treatment of violins."—Hereford Times.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. XIII.
12mo., Cloth, 1.00.
THE VIOLIN:
Solo Playing, Soloists and Solos,
BY
WILLIAM HENLEY.
"Mr. William Henley is an excellent performer, and his book, 'The Violin: Solo Playing, Soloists and Solos,' is the result of considerable practice in the art he discusses.... The opening advice to violin students, the insistence on tune first and then on tone, the latter depending greatly for its excellence upon the correctness of the former, is not only worth saying, but is said well, and with conviction. Mr. Henley discriminates well between violinists: Joachim, the classic; Carrodus, the plain; Sarasate, the neat and elegant; and Wilhelmj, the fiery and bold.... The list of violin concertos, given in the last chapter but one of the book, seems a very complete one, and should be useful for purposes of reference."—The London and Provincial Music Trades Review.
"For the student whose intention it is to make the violin a means of livelihood—the professional soloist or orchestral player in embryo—this little work, written in a spirit of obvious sincerity, is well-nigh invaluable.... The chapters on 'Teaching and Studies,' 'The Artist,' 'Phrasing,' 'Conception,' and 'True Feeling,' are very well written, and the whole work is worth careful and diligent perusal."—The Musical World.
"The author of this book has thought much and deeply on the fascinating subject of which he treats, and is entitled to a hearing.... The author's remarks on 'Tone' are excellently conceived, and of no small interest, the subject being less hackneyed than that of ordinary technique. In his chapter on 'Style' he reminds the readers of the many factors which go to the making of a fine violinist, among which Style—which is the outcome of the imagination and the sensibility of the player—is one of the most important. The fine executant is common enough now-a-days, but the fine stylist as rare as ever."—Musical News.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. XIV.
12mo., Cloth, 1.00.
SELECTED VIOLIN SOLOS,
AND
HOW TO PLAY THEM,
BY
BASIL ALTHAUS
(Author of "Advice to Pupils and Teachers of the Violin.")
With 283 Musical Examples.
CONTENTS.
Introduction.
SECTION I.
Grade A.—Elementary Pieces.
Grade B.—Easy, not exceeding First Position.
Grade C.—Easy, using First and Third Position.
SECTION II.
Grade D.—Moderately Difficult, not exceeding the Third Position.
Grade E.—Moderately Difficult, as far as the Fifth Position.
Grade F.—Difficult, especially as regards Sentiment and
Expression.
SECTION III.
Grade G.—Difficult, using all Positions.
Grade H.—Very Difficult, including Standard Concertos and
Concert Pieces.
Grade I.—For Virtuosi.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. XV.
12mo., Cloth, 1.00.
THE
VIOLIN AND ITS STORY:
OR THE
HISTORY AND CONSTRUCTION
OF THE VIOLIN.
Translated and Adapted from the German of
HYACINTH ABELE
BY
GEOFFREY ALWYN.
WITH TWENTY-EIGHT ILLUSTRATIONS.
"The school of Cremona is dealt with at great length, but in the most interesting way. Short biographical sketches are given of the great exponents of this school, which was founded by Andreas Amati. To it belonged Antonio Stradivari, who is said to be the greatest of all violin makers, and Joseph Guarnerius. The pupils of the Amati and the others mentioned are duly tabulated before the schools of Milan and Venice are discussed. Following these we have the German school, etc., etc. Part III. of the book under notice deals with the constituent parts of the violin, and there is nothing that the seeker after knowledge cannot find here, even to the number of hairs which should go to the making of a bow. Strings, bridges, sound-posts, bass-bars, nuts, pegs—indeed, everything about a violin is treated in an authoritative way. Not for a very long time have we been so interested in a book, and for that reason we wish our violin players to share that pleasure by getting a copy."—The Cumnock Chronicle.
"THE STRAD" LIBRARY, No. XVI.
12mo., Cloth, 2.00.
JOSEPH GUARNERIUS,
HIS WORK & HIS MASTER,
BY
HORACE PETHERICK
(Of the Music Jury, International Inventions Exhibition, South Kensington, 1885; International Exhibition, Edinburgh, 1890; Expert in Law Courts, 1891; President of the Cremona Society).
With numerous Illustrations by the Author,
41 full-page Reproductions of Photographs,
AND
220 pages of Letterpress.
"Mr. Petherick is well known in the musical world as a violin expert with a special knowledge of the instruments made by the Cremonese master."—Lloyds.
This is the only exhaustive work published on JOSEPH GUARNERIUS, and the Author claims to have discovered his Teacher in Andreas Gisalberti, whose name is here mentioned for the first time as a maker of renown.
NEW YORK:
CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS, 153-157, FIFTH AVENUE.
