# Modern violin excerpts

c. 1910–1950

This modern violin selection contains 2 excerpts. Begin with Prokofiev: Classical Symphony, I: Classical elegance at a modern tempo, with wide leaps and sudden register changes that make it far harder than it sounds. The period label groups these works for discovery; it does not prescribe one tempo, articulation or sound for every composer.

For violin, separate a fast left-hand pattern from its bow distribution first. Reconnect them at a tempo where the crossing or shift does not interrupt the pulse, then check whether a repeated figure has the same articulation each time.

The recorded technique tags in this selection include symphony, audition, fast, leaps, rhythm. Choose one relevant passage, read its specific practice notes below, and set one listening target before a complete run. Tags describe the library entries, not a required exam syllabus.

Modern orchestral writing asks the cello section for rhythmic precision under irregular metres, extended colours such as sul ponticello and hard pizzicato, and exposed lines with no harmonic cushion. Counting becomes as decisive as tone.

- [Prokofiev: Classical Symphony, I](https://arcosounds.com/repertoire/violin/prokofiev-classical-i), Classical elegance at a modern tempo, with wide leaps and sudden register changes that make it far harder than it sounds. Audition; Modern; Treble clef. Standard audition excerpt.
- [Bartók: Concerto for Orchestra, fast string writing](https://arcosounds.com/repertoire/violin/bartok-concerto-orchestra-violin), Angular, fast, rhythmically irregular string writing that tests counting and articulation as much as the fingers. Audition; Modern; Treble clef. Standard audition excerpt.

Canonical source: https://arcosounds.com/repertoire/violin/era/modern