Whenever possible, one should take time and care to choose an instrument. As we move up to higher levels there are more things to take into account and more time will be needed to choose an instrument – which we… Read More »Choosing an Instrument
When proper basic shifting technique is in place and there is an understanding about the principles of shifting, we can look at some of the additional matters that deal with shifting. 1. Moving the Thumb First When the left thumb… Read More »Shifting III
The Principles of Shifting While focus tends to be given to the technique of shifting, it is equally important to know why and when we change positions. Shifting has two major functions: 1. Staying on a string Staying on one… Read More »Shifting II
When students approach shifting, the most important thing seems to become intonation. And while that is very important, what is more fundamental is learning to use the fingers correctly while shifting. 1. A relaxed violin hold The main thing to… Read More »Shifting I
This posting does not deal with expressive movement, which is really up to the individual. Our discussion is on the practical aspects of moving the violin or viola. The instrument can move in a few ways: Photo credit: Edited from… Read More »Moving While Playing
This is a discussion on how to better improve the quality of sound. In the process, one of the additional things that will be mentioned is the use of memorizing music, and how to do so. A. Keeping the Bow… Read More »Tone Production II
There are at least three different aspects to productive practice: correction, repetition, and experimentation. The last, experimentation, is in many ways the most important of the three since it helps us to discover what we can correct and then repeat… Read More »Experimenting with the Bow
Benefits Some of the most important things seem to also be the most basic, and one clear example is playing with a straight bow. There are times when it does help to do the opposite – which will be discussed… Read More »Playing With a Straight Bow
Shoulder rests are a “big deal” to many people. This is no real surprise, since shoulder rests can change the sound of an instrument dramatically and instantly. (Which, I think on some level is also because even the best practice… Read More »Shoulder Rests
Based on some things which I have learned here in Fall 2006, and some new things I discovered while teaching, this post will elaborate on vibrato. A. Vibrato Speeds Those who have problems slowing down or speeding up their vibrato… Read More »Vibrato II