Fiddle - Catha Hayden
Learn to play the Fiddle in this tutorial. Instruction is provided by tutor Cathal Hayden. Video and audio files combine with music notation, text and photos to make the learning process as easy as possible.
Cathal Hayden is one of the most admired and prolific fiddlers in Irish traditional music.
The tutorial caters for all levels from the absolute beginner to very advanced players. The tutorial also includes a performance piece and an interview with the tutor.
Beginners
In the beginners' section Cathal demonstrates the basic skills of fiddle playing using easy, slow-paced tunes. Jigs and reels are then introduced and ornaments are added gradually. The individual parts of these tunes are demonstrated on video at a slow pace and the full tune is subsequently demonstrated at a medium pace so that you can play along.
Topics Covered:
- 16 Tunes
- Pop-up Video Screens
- Reading Music
- Precise Musical Notation
- Notes and Scales
- How to Hold and How to Tune
- Using the Bow
- Easy Airs
- Beginners' Jigs and Reels
- Jigs and Reels with Ornamentation
Advanced
The advanced section features jigs and reels that are more highly ornamented. Other tune types - Polkas, Slides and Hornpipes - are also presented. Cathal demonstrates a range of ornamentation techniques unique to his style:
Topics Covered:
- Jigs and Reels
- Polkas and Slides
- Hornpipes
These tutorials are brought to you by Trad Irish Music in cooperation with Mad For Trad.
