Mary Cohen studied violin, piano, chamber music and composition at the Royal College of Music, where she won many major prizes. After several years in the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, she set up the teaching practice that has become a research base for her educational projects. As well as violin and piano, she also plays the viola and cello.

Mary gives seminars regularly both in the UK and abroad. Since 2001 she has worked for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music on their innovative Music Medals project, both as technical consultant and composer. Passionate about chamber music, Mary introduces it from the very first term of instrumental lessons, recognising both the value of new skills and of social music-making. She founded String Quartets From Scratch (SQFS), a club for chamber music for 7 –18 year olds, for which she has written a great deal of ensemble material, resulting in such publications as the Quartetstart series. 

Mary believes that learning to play an instrument should be set in the context of a broad musical experience, and that each pupil has a unique personal learning style that should be encouraged to flourish. Her publications for the early stages are designed to have instant appeal for children of primary school age, with lots of humour and an easily digestible progression of new techniques to learn. The acclaimed Superseries has transformed modern teaching methods while bringing huge amounts of enjoyment to countless student string players.
 

Free Downloads!

Free Downloads!

A selection of games, activity pages, posters and tips from Mary Cohen that are perfect for teachers and students to download.
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Violin Technique in Practice

Violin Technique in Practice

Violin Technique in Practice is an innovative approach to violin technique by Mary Cohen, developed from her unique ‘weightless balance’ methodology. Concise exercises are structured into sets that cover all aspects of technique alongside the author’s expert advice guiding you through like a personal trainer.

This book will develop a relaxed, secure technique and increase confidence in every part of the instrument – without the need to spend hours practising. It has been written with the needs of advanced students, teachers and professional players in mind, although the early sets are also ideal for use with students at late-intermediate level. 

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The Legend of Baldr

The Legend of Baldr

Written for Narrator and Orchestra
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