My students were overjoyed to hear that Georgia has now published her Platinum Hey Presto! and those taking Grade 4 this term can’t wait to learn these fabulous pieces! The first 5 pages feature charts and exercises (with backing tracks) to practice 3rd position shifting, followed by pieces using 3rd position and introducing sequences in a swung jazz piece, an Aria in classical style, and a boogie-woogie. The next 2 pages introduce 2nd position with a Rondo in F minor, and on page 7, the student plays ‘Twinkle Twinkle’ in 2nd to 5th position before embarking on Roadrunner, Cantabile and the lively Box Clever (reminiscent of a Martinu study) with a myriad of time signatures and rapid octave quavers. At the top of each page (up to piece 12) there is a helpful chart showing which notes first finger plays on each string and in each position. As technical challenges increase, the player glimpses Handel, Bach Partitas, Paganini, Bohm, Klezmer and gypsy fiddlers (and others), and without realising it, the student is becoming familiar with technique and position work but has also mastered memorable and performable pieces – all in one book!…There are 3 duets at the back, plus a page of fiendish rhythms, a list of musical terms used, and a certificate to award to the pupil who completes the challenges. A piano accompaniment is available, making this book ideal for high-level technical study and concert performance.
Sue Rivett, ARCO magazine, April 2013
Hey Presto for Violin,’ Books 1 and 2 are a must for young learners. The books are very carefully graded, and colour coding, rhymes and comments from the characters will surely draw the child into their pages. Parents wishing to help their children should also find them easy to follow as all the information needed at each stage is clearly stated.
The pace of the accompaniments provided on CDs is just right to encourage rather than panic a young player, and the concert pieces at the end of the books are very satisfying and make pleasant listening for group performance, as well as enjoyment for the players.
These are two of the most attractive books for violin that I have seen.
Sue Ashby, music teacher, RGS The Grange, Worcester
A couple of my students have been using the books since the beginning of term. They really love the pieces and accompaniments, and the technical points (and ESTA influence) demonstrated through the pieces are obvious. These books come highly recommended.
Sue Rivett, ARCO magazine
If you want to learn the violin, get Hey Presto!
Lily, age 8
Hey Presto! Violin tuition books and theory books are easy to follow, colourful and concise books which my students very much enjoy. The pieces are fantastic, and every one is enjoyable to play. The early use of musical signs and Italian words give the students a head start compared with other beginner violin material. A must have for any violin teacher’s or student’s bag!
Caroline Ince, violin teacher
Hey Presto! is an invaluable and innovative resource for all young violin students, and bound to sell like hot cakes. Lively, colourful presentation and lots of original ideas combine to make learning fun for all ages and abilities. I can’t recommend these books highly enough. All children should have the chance to try them.
Anne Tupling, Assistant Headteacher, Shropshire
I made truly surprising progress and enjoyed playing every different piece.
Jill Bate, adult beginner
Hey Presto! is really good for learning to read the notes!
Ellie, age 7
Hey Presto! is a really fun book for when you start the violin!
Isobel, age 8