How to Hold the Violin
The violin is the main melody instrument of the symphony orchestra. It is a fine instrument for a music student to begin at an early age.
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Instructions
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Find a private area with a straight-back chair and a music stand.
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Take the violin out of its case and place the instrument base on your lap.
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Pluck each string using your right or left thumb to test its tension and hear its pitch.
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Use a pitch pipe or a piano to tune your violin to G - D - A - E. ("E" is the top space on the treble clef on your sheet music. "G" is below the second ledger line of the treble clef.)
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5
Wrap your left hand around the upper body where the neck and fingerboard extend from the instrument.
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Place the base of the violin and the black chin rest below your chin.
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Bring your left shoulder around so it's under the chin rest and forms a support from below.
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Keep the violin level using your left hand. Your shoulder and chin provide firm, but easy contact and support.
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Be comfortable and relaxed.
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Tips & Warnings
A shoulder pad or shoulder rest that attaches to the base of the instrument often helps the young student support the violin. These cost between $12 and $35.
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Comments
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betty2447
Jan 01, 2008
I have been learning the violin but am finding the vibrato is something I can't do yet. Can anyone please help me? -
betty2447
Jan 01, 2008
I have been learning the violin but am finding the vibrato is something I can't do yet. Can anyone please help me?
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Mar 28, 2006
When using sheet music, buy a well made music stand, and raise it until you feel you have a better posture. When it's too low you find your whole upper body looking down and your hand will slide down to the heel.
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Nov 22, 2005
Do not let your wrist touch the heel of the violin. It is very difficult to play higher notes with your wrist in this position.
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Nov 22, 2005
Make sure you don't tense up your shoulders when playing. Keep them nice and relaxed. It often helps to check in a mirror and watch your posture as you play. SOmetimes bad bowing habits are quickly solved with proper posture. Keep the violin fingerboard fairly level as well. It's just like writing something on paper, we all want a flat surface to work on.
