Cover story
Tabea Zimmermann: climb every mountain
German violist Tabea Zimmermann chats with Pauline Harding about auditions, competitions, her teaching philosophy, what she’s learnt from contemporary music – and how a combination of working with students and performing has enabled her to reach ever greater heights of string playing
Playing
String teachers’ development: sharing the wisdom
Teaching often forms a major part of a string player’s career, but how and where do they develop the skills required? Peter Somerford hears from pedagogues, course leaders and graduates about the options
Lutherie
Lutherie in Berlin: Berlin calling
While some European capitals have a well-documented history of violin making, Berlin has passed under the radar. Daniel Kogge looks at some of the German capital’s most prominent makers from the 18th century onwards
Technique
Technique: effective practice technique
Advice on how to develop your own method of practice, for violinists and violists
Masterclass
Masterclass: Ysaÿe’s Rêve d’enfant op.14 for violin and piano
Violinist Nancy Zhou demonstrates the breadth of Ysaÿe’s expressive devices in an intimate piece dedicated to his son
Trade Secrets
Trade Secrets: Fitting a marquetry inlay
A guide to adding a unique, personalised touch to an instrument front or back
