How to Use Left-Hand Fingering on the Viola

You can use the index, middle and ring fingers on each of the four viola strings. This will allow the young student to play many songs. This eHow will concentrate on producing a melody using just two strings.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Move the left thumb to 1 1/2" of the "nut" on the under side of the neck.

2. Keep a straight line between the wrist and the hand.

3. Maintain the arch of the left index finger while pressing down on the G string with the pad of the finger tip.

4. Pick the string. This note is an "A".

5. Pick two A's. Lift the first finger. Pick one "G" on the same open string.

6. Repeat this 4 times (playing A A G) until you are comfortable.

7. Pick four notes on two "open" (unfingered) strings using C C G G. Repeat 4 times.

8. Combine these 7 notes. C C G G A A G...

9. You just played the first part of your first song... "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little star"

10. xxx

11. 1st version: Place the left thumb under the neck about 1 3/4 inches below the nut.

12. Maintain the arch of the index finger while pressing down on the "G" string with the pad of the finger tip.

13. Play 2 pizzicato notes on the open (no fingering) "A" string followed by 2 pizzicato notes on the same string while pressing the first finger down firmly.

14. The first finger pressed down on the "A" string produces the note "B".

15. Add the 2nd finger on the "C#" string 1 1/2 inch closer to the bridge.

16. Pluck the string. This note is "B"... two whole steps above the "G" string.

17. Play C# - B - A - B - C# - C# - C# and you've played your first tune... Mary Had A Little Lamb.

18. Try the above exercise while using the viola bow.

Tips & Warnings

• Be relaxed and enjoy yourself.
• It is OK if the pitches or rhythms are not "exact".
• Improvement develops with regular daily practice, good listening and effort.
• Keep your thumb positioned in the same place on the neck at this stage.