How to Use Left-Hand Fingering on the Violin

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Place your left thumb under the violin's neck about 1 1/2 inches below the nut.
2. Play two pizzicato notes on the open (no fingering) "G" string.
3. Keep your index finger arched and press down firmly on the "G" string with the pad of your fingertip.
4. Play two pizzicato notes on this same string. This produces the note "A" - eight notes (an octave) lower than the open "A" string above.
5. Play this low "A" with your index finger on the "G" string. Then play the high "A" on the open string above. Listen to how they match in pitch.
6. Adjust your finger placement on the "G" string to make the "lower A" pitch match the upper.
7. Put your middle finger on the "G" string one inch closer to the bridge.
8. Pluck the string. This note is "B" - two whole steps above the "G" string.
9. Play B - A - G - A - B - B - B and you've played your first tune, "Mary Had A Little Lamb."
10. Try these steps while using the violin bow.

Tips & Warnings

• Be relaxed and enjoy yourself.
• It's okay if the pitches and rhythms are not "exact." You'll improve by listening closely and practicing regularly.
• Keep your thumb positioned in the same place on the neck at this stage.
• Don't allow the palm of your left hand to collapse on the violin neck.