Violin Lesson #1

Violin Lesson + Tips #1

Use this to help remember all the fingerings for the notes/scales and to help hold your violin and bow correctly:)))

Most Common Violin Fingering

• These finger patterns are used commonly for the D and G major scales.

• The most common fingering for the D and G string is where the 1st finger and 2nd finger are a whole step apart. The 2nd finger and 3rd finger are a half step apart. The 3rd and 4th finger are a whole step apart.

• The A and E String either have the Low 2 or L2 pattern (where the 2nd finger is next to the 1st), or the regular WS (whole step) - HS (half step) - WS pattern.

2nd Fingering

• The third most common fingering is where the 1st and 2nd finger remain a whole step apart, but the 2nd and 3rd finger are a whole step apart. The 3rd and 4th finger are a half step apart (3rd finger lies right next to the 4th finger, which you may see as High 3 or H3)

The D Major Scale

• The D Major scale consists of two sharps- F# and C#.

• You start the scale on the open D string, and then end the scale on the 3rd finger on the A string.

• Here's a link to how to play the scale, and no worries if you're not able to play it right away with the bow. Don't worry about vibrato, as that it an advanced scale for later:) https://youtu.be/87xnpgS9VD8

The G Major Scale

• The G major scale consists of one sharp- F#.

• You start the scale on open G, as pictured to the right. The finger pattern is the "normal" 1, H2, 3, and 4 finger pattern. On the A and E string, the 2nd finger is a Low 2, right next to the 1st finger.\

• G major scale link here: https://youtu.be/9oIqz6vCo_8

Bow hold help!!!

• Here's a very helpful video tutorial on how to hold the bow. Adjust your fingers as necessary! Your bow hold is constantly changing, so no worries if is doesn't feel comfortable at first!!! https://youtu.be/vh4NBfHXvhs

• Remember to loosen your wrist and fingers, as it will make it more comfortable over time to hold the bow.

• Also, remember make sure your thumb is bent.

Do's and Don'ts when holding the bow

• Make sure the pinky AND thumb are bent! No banana thumbs allowed here.

• Make sure your middle and ring finger cover the eye of the frog. "Wrap" your index finger over the winding on the bow (above the grip).

• MAKE SURE YOUR WRIST IS NICE AND LOOSE!

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcoOWGdIlgI

Tips For Holding the Violin

• Make sure your shoulder rest is comfortable, and placed higher up on your shoulder. You will want to be able to hold your violin up with just the strength of your shoulder and chin.

• As for your arm, make sure it is relaxed, and straight. You don't want a pancake wrist! Make sure there is also a "mouse" hole in between your hand and the neck of your violin. Have your fingers curved!

• Here's a video to help: https://youtu.be/FD2vutZXG7o