O'Connor Violin Method Book II and CD

My son really enjoys this series of music books. His private lesson teacher typically teaches from the Suzuki books, but the music in this book series is what he really enjoys playing. He hears a melody on the cd, and wants to pursue learning it, rather than learning it as a chore. He is far more engaged with this type of music than he is with classical music. It is rhythmic, toe-tapping, clap along sort of music - and he can remember the tunes much more easily than the classical songs in the Suzuki books. I should add that the music CD is actually nice to listen to, because despite how basic the tunes are in the earlier book levels, Mark O'Connor puts so much detail/intricacy into playing each piece that they are far from mundane.

It's okay, but not my go to book.

This is the direction to go...for many students, because (from my experience) I find that they tend to play much more musically when playing tunes they can relate to. An excellent collection of tunes that will promote better violin specific technique and musicianship.Room to improve:1.) Take out all those photos of M O'C! No need for them (we know why you put them in there). They do not add to the educational experience.2.) (Like Book IV), spiral bind the book and book III - for the money, you really should have. The book should just fall open at any page.

My daughter has all three Mark O'Connor Violin books. The piece selections are great and the instruction is easy to follow. She has improved so quickly and wonderfully that her instructor asks her if she has a private tutor! We want to enroll her in one of his camps next.

Wonderful curriculum for Violin. My child is doing these books with Suzuki because she likes both styles of music. These songs are her favorite. I have to say that the O'Connor books really helped her develop a passion for her instrument.

After years of only doing Suzuki and church songs, my girls were ready for a change. I purchased several levels of this series for them and they were thrilled. It is a nice mix of songs and they like having the CD to play along with.

Not bad

Interesting and fun approach to violin playing. What I like is that it legitimizes American fiddle music and introduces the necessary elements of classical technique.