Pablo Casals Biography: The Legacy of a Master Cellist
Pablos Casals, Catalan birth name Pau Casals i Defilló, was born on December 29th 1876 in Tarragona, Spain. His father was a native of Spain and the organist in a...
LIVS Blog
How to Choose Violin Strings
Gut, synthetic, aluminum, silver, gold-plated, high-tension, thick, thin, so many options and so many choices. Some players find a brand they like and stick with it, others are constantly searching...
Effective Instrument Practice Tips
Has a piece ever left you frustrated despite working hard to learn it, or you can’t get the melody right even though you’ve put the time in? Don’t worry, your...
Diving into the Music Industry Major
Many people have a passion for music, for performing, for being on stage, but how does one get there? How does one’s music career become so big? There are many...
Setting up For a Musical Summer
The temperatures are rising, the days are getting longer, and Ralph's Italian Ices is open and ready for business. With all the joy that summer brings, it is only natural...
Cello Rock Stops for Everyone
Every musical instrument has an array of accessories to aid in greater ease while playing. Rock stops are a standard accessory for cellists, essential for keeping your cello in one,...
Isaac Stern Biography: The Legacy of a Master
Who is Isaac Stern? Isaac Stern, was born into a musical family on July 21, 1920, in Poland, which is presently Ukraine. When he was 14 months old, his family...
The Parts of a Violin Explained
Understanding the different parts of a violin is essential for both players and enthusiasts. Each component plays a crucial role in producing the instrument's unique sound. This guide will help...
Basic Violin, Viola, and Cello Setup and Care
Proper setup and care are essential for maintaining the sound quality and longevity of your string instrument. Whether you play the violin, viola, or cello, following these guidelines will help...
How to Choose Your First Violin, Viola, or Cello
Choosing your first string instrument can be an exciting yet daunting task. With so many options available, it's essential to find the right fit for your needs and preferences. This...
Humidity and Your Musical Instrument
The Impact of Humidity on Wooden Instruments Instruments made of wood; violins, pianos, guitars, etc., react to changes in humidity thus significant swings in temperature and humidity levels play havoc...
Who is Florence Price?
Throughout history, women have made significant impacts on the music industry. You have Ella Fitzgerald – also dubbed as the “Queen of Jazz” – who became the first African-American woman...
The Conservatory Audition Process
Congratulations! Determining what you would like to pursue as a major in your collegiate studies is a big decision! When you choose to major in music, you open up a...
How to Get Musically Motivated
Every musician has a story of when they felt discouraged by their own lack of improvement, and therefore, felt unmotivated to practice. It is important to remember that progress is...
Orchestra Etiquette
by Joanne Garcia Whether you’re an adult beginner joining a community orchestra or the parent of a young child selected the first time for an All County or other regional...
How to motivate your child to practice music when they want to quit
Your young string student, who once had stars in their eyes over the prospect of learning an instrument, is now fighting with you every time they have to open their...