Subramaniam Academy of Performing Arts (SaPa) in Bengaluru has addressed an important matter in learning the violin, the Indian way. The first in the series SaPa Baby Violin (SaPa Level-1) conceptualised and written by the Subramaniams — L Subramaniam and his children Ambi and Bindu, is being released on February 8. The book is published by the Subramaniam Foundation, and will be available on Amazon. The SaPa Baby Violin series has been specially designed to teach violin in an easy, entertaining and engaging way while maintaining the structure of the classical music education. With its child-friendly design, trivia, activities and tips, the book is targeted for young readers.
“The book is based on the SaPa Violin Method which focuses on sound technique, tonality, and emotional playing,” says Ambi, who started learning the violin from the age of three. Speaking on why the three of them wanted to bring out the book, Ambi says as violinists and educators who have operated in this space for many years, they noticed there was a need for a structured violin curriculum. “Take examples of the initial Geete lessons in Carnatic. There are many books that teach children songs such as Vara Veena or Sri Gananatha but for someone looking to learn the violin, there is nothing teaching the exact fingering or bowing techniques, or what part of the bow they should use for different songs,” says Ambi who is pursuing PhD in music.
In these books, Ambi has composed a few pieces specific to the violin. “The idea behind creating a book like this was for children to have a resource they can refer to and learn from,” he says.
Classically trained singer/songwriter Bindu has also been part of her father’s team to devise a music curriculum for specific music courses now available in several colleges. “We took about a year to put the book together. This included research and testing the techniques in the book” says Bindu who holds a Master’s in Songwriting and Music Business (Berklee Music) and a diploma in Montessori Education.
The brother and sister duo also host the SaPa Show , a TV programme that teaches global music to children. “This is one more area of experience where we both realised that having the techniques and other learning in a book form would help. We will have the other books in the series for mid and senior level learners,” adds Bindu.
L Subramaniam said, technique is one of the most important aspects for a student and that is the focus of this book. “It is a lot easier to master them early on, than change after years of playing.” The book “pays special attention to phrasing, bowing and fingering,” while asking students to monitor their pitch and rhythm. “Each song and exercise in the book focuses on one specific technique so that the student has the chance to master it,” says the veteran violinist.
There will be a total of 10 levels in the SaPa-violin series. “This book is the first of a 10-part series with each book corresponding to a level. The books are well-researched and have a logical progression. Each level is designed to take a year to complete,” says Ambi.
Subramaniam says, it is important for enthusiasts to have a book that enumerates the basics. “Each instrument is unique, so it is natural that the learning technique for each instrument should be unique as well. Violin is one of the most versatile instruments, and the learners have to build a solid foundation that allows them to master multiple styles.” While the book focuses on Indian classical music, it helps students with global violin techniques that serves as a base for other styles.
