It’s never too late to learn something new! I teach a combination of classical and fiddle music and am always open to hearing about what my students are interested in learning. There are many wonderful styles of violin/fiddle/folk music to explore. I invite my students to listen to a wide variety of music to find out what styles inspire them. My students, whether they are casual or serious enthusiasts, range from ages 3 to 90. Private lessons are offered in weekly 30, 45 or 60 minute timeframes depending on the age and level of the student. 

Technique is important no matter what style of violin/fiddle you are interested in. I was very fortunate to have many wonderful teachers that emphasized the importance of good posture and technique. I want to pass on the same knowledge to my students so that they can play successfully their whole lives. 

Since I am a classically trained violin player, I encourage students that are interested in this path to take classical exams and/or enter music festivals. I have worked with many students to prepare them for Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) exams (Grade 1-10). I also teach all levels of the theory co-requisites. 

In the fiddle music tradition, learning by ear is important. I teach tunes by ear as well as by note. I know that if you are comfortable learning by ear and by note, you can learn any music that interests you! 

I believe that it is important for a teacher to keep learning and growing, no matter how long they have been playing. I love being able to share my own learning experiences with my students. Not only do I enjoy learning new music and new instruments, I like learning from other teachers at the workshops I am a part of. Incorporating new teaching ideas and music into my own method keeps things fresh and inspiring for my students and for myself! 

Fiddle with friends! Playing music with other people is fun! 

To this day I am still in touch with people that I played in music groups with as a child and teenager. Having friends to practice with, jam with and go to music camps with is a very special thing. 

I encourage interested parents to take up the violin with their child. Sharing the joys and challenges of learning something new with your young player is a wonderful experience. My child/parent duos take private lessons together as well as participating in an appropriate group class with other families. Many parents continue on with their own violin practice after their child becomes more established.

As often as possible, I have more experienced/older group members joining the younger/less experienced group classes for larger ensemble pieces. Older students are such great role models and I am happy to offer mentoring opportunities to interested advanced students. These mentors learn how to work with younger violin students by participating in beginner/intermediate groups as my assistants.

I have groups for all ages and playing levels. My private lesson students that join group classes will work on a combination of fiddle, classical and pop arrangements in multiple harmonies. From the Can-Can to Thunderstruck and everything in between they work together to arrange, learn and perform these pieces.

The Saskatoon Fiddle Orchestra was started in 2004 by Marielle Gauthier and Peggy Slater-Johnson as a living room jam group. It has evolved into a not-for-profit orchestra made up of more than 35 players. I have had the pleasure of being their musical director since 2006.

For adult fiddle players (16 and over), this fun-filled band meets Tuesday evenings. We incorporate a wide range of levels and instruments into this group. The SFO currently has fiddle, guitar, piano, accordion, banjo, cello and flute players. Mandolin and bass also fit our group very well. We play a variety of fiddle/folk styles and all of our music is taught by note. Our goal is to celebrate traditional music in an orchestral and fun setting!

The group plays one major concert a year held at the Broadway Theatre in Saskatoon. When possible, some of my own students or violin groups have had the opportunity to take the stage and showcase their talents with the SFO. We also enjoy playing shows at senior’s homes, community events and other special occasions.

Check out the Saskatoon Fiddle Orchestra on Facebook

For SFO Members: https://www.kimdelaforestmusic.com/sfo