dimanche 10 août 2014

Coaching Young Musicians On How To Hold A Violin Correctly

By Tanisha Berg


The violin is one of the most established instruments in the Western music tradition. With a history of several centuries and a presence in a host of famous works, it is a familiar sound to music listeners in many countries. Aspiring musicians should always try to maintain the right playing technique, and part of that is knowing how to hold a violin correctly.

The violin was previously used in classical or orchestral music, and some may feel that it is restricted to that style. However, it has been deployed in contemporary popular music, with the sensational modern musician Vanessa Mae one of its prime examples. Although she sometimes uses an electric instrument, other current musicians may make use of the conventional wooden one.

Its size makes it convenient for people to play. It is easily portable and it is also light enough to be manageable for those lacking physical strength, or kids. They can play it for long periods at a time or take it with them to classes and shows. It is also known for its longevity. The premier make, namely Stradivarius, is actually no longer produced, since the master craftsman who made them died more than two centuries ago. Yet they are still used in professional concerts and they fetch high prices when they are sold.

Appropriate technique in holding the violin is essential to successful playing. It serves to prevent the repetitive strain injuries that are a risk with any instrument, and it also makes the correct performance of pieces of music easier. A violin does not offer its player any guides as to where to put their fingers on its neck. Unlike a guitar, it does not have frets, and there are no markings. It is therefore imperative that the violinist adopts the correct posture so as to be able to produce the right notes.

The player traditionally holds the violin in their left hand, and plants its base on their clavicle. They may then sometimes use their lower jaw to keep the instrument in the same position, by pushing downwards on it slightly. The left hand works the strings to facilitate the notes in the music. This is not a simple physical stance to maintain and it requires practice and experienced tuition to master.

A common mistake is to push down too hard with the jaw in an attempt to stop the instrument from slipping off the collarbone. People may also grip the neck too tightly. It is important to remember that, during playing, the instrument alternates between the jaw, shoulder and left hand in the distribution of its weight. Excessive pressure is a poor tactic and should not be persisted with.

Some violinists use a shoulderpad to assist in the stability of their playing position. The shoulderpad should not be too thick, or else it will cause an unnatural position for the instrument. It should also be made of a suitable material, one which provides enough traction for the varnished wood to rest on safely. As a rule of thumb, the broader the player's shoulder, the smaller the pad can be.

Proper playing technique is essential for any instrument. Bad habits, once acquired, are hard to lose. However, they limit the ability of the person to play an instrument. Some pieces of music may even seem impossible if an incorrect technique is applied to them. Musicians should concentrate on the right grip and posture in order to attain the long term results that the instrument offers.




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