Violin Lesson #5; The Hold, Finger Placement pt. 2

[gabqcm]

would you recommend to use the shoulder rest thingy? or do you think anyone can learn to hold the violin whitout that? because i can hold the violin just with the neck only with the shoulder rest :(

i feel like i cant hold it right without it, am i doing sometihng wrong?

[professorV]

@gabqcm - You need to be comfortable and relaxed, and maintain good posture.  Use a shoulder rest if you need one and don't worry about anything else. Good luck.

[animecatgirlroxs]

When you start playing the violin is it painful? Like i know i tried to play the guitar and i was like...what? 0_0 Is it easier to play piano or violin and how difficult is it to play the violin (im a noob...never held one before ^^')

[Kfreeks]

Good to know that it is better to put down the middle two fingers first. Thank you :-)

[bostonmin3]

Hello. I have a question related to the violin. I have a bad habit with my left hand. My pinky always falls back when I'm playing, and it's hard to place it when I'm playing. When I focus on the pinky, my pinky always gets tense, and everything else gets messed up. Please reply, and thank you.

[wrathofcell]

I really hope he has more videos...ive been watching these and they help ALOT....

[darkj3am]

do that V shape thing and the thumb really that important?? i play guitar for 6 years now.. so i kinda used to hold the violin like a guitar. i can play piece without vibrato.. i can use my pinky even though my thumb is on the top.. but doing exactly what you said, i feel the violin is TOOO SMALL... i think i have a big hands.. i think i'm giving up.. and i think i can never learn anything without MONEY i need a teacher for my questions.. i hate the world so fucking depressing.... GOD!!!

[MadmanPanda]

@darkj3am Well, he did say, for those with shorter pinkies. You really shouldn't give up just because you think you're hands are too big. I'm self-teaching violin - which I know everyone says is a terrible idea - but I'm doing it anyway. Just try and steer clear of bad habits.

[C0tt0nP0is0n65]

This is really helpful but i don't understand my violin teacher!! She told me to keep my index finger and thumb straight so the image resembles a box (??) and then the side of my first finger's knuckle bone cannot touch the instrument and when i fix it she says the side of my first finger's should not touch at all and i clearly see your fingers touching the instrument. I can't correct her because shes so stubborn

[FameBeast]

well this was reallly helpful, but have to cut my nails if i want to be abel to play properly.

[Igneous01]

a quick question about how the left hand touches the finger board. does the index knuckle make contact with the neck of the violin? I find myself doing this alot and i realize its becoming difficult to do flats with my second finger (so that its beside the first finger) because the knuckle seems to lock my hand and I have to slightly adjust my hand again to do a flat on second finger.

If this is wrong, whats the solution to this?

thanks for these videos they really help

[hopeqing]

Hi ProfessorV,

I love your videos. My violin teacher recommends your lessons. I stopped playing violin for 20 years and just pick it up recently. I have a terrible habit that my V with left thumb and index finger collapse, especially when I have fingers 1 and 4 in position. The collapsed V is mainly caused by the base knuckle (joint of finger with hand) of index finger cave in. It is terrible because whenever I start doing it, my left hand becomes more tense. Is there a way to correct it?

[WhaleSquared]

my pinky is double jointed. this is a lot harder than i thought. but you are an amazing teacher! i'm so thankful that i've found this.

[parsprincess]

I really need some help! I have rather small hands my pinky is double jointed... so when I push down my pinky onto the string to play 4th finger, it bends and hurts!

It is a very, very weak pinky :( can't hold it straight... any advise professor V?

[MadmanPanda]

@parsprincess I know you were asking the professor, but I couldn't help wanting to let you know: you should try pinky exercises. I don't know if you still need help, but take a clothes pin between your pinky and thumb and close. Hold it for five seconds. Hopefully it helps.

[baierunfit]

how much is a good cheap violin?

[Drcjyork]

@baierunfit I just went violin shopping and found the perfect one for $215. In my opinion if you're not sure if you're going to want to follow through with learning try finding a shop that let's you rent violins or look for a used violin to buy; used probably sounds about as good as a new one in some cases. I'm new at the violin myself so if anyone has a better opinion feel free to correct me.

[alliha737]

You know what is really funny? I'm taking up violin again now, but it seems that every thing you are teaching is things I now do automatically. I love my body that won't forget <3

[Charm874]

you're amazing. thank you so much for putting these videos up! definitely the best violin tut vids on youtube. :D

[amandasklim]

tq for this info. Be I pick up this bad habit.

[TheGabbyHeart]

I had my first violin class today, it was awesome I'm really enjoyed my first class, it's nice to be able to watch your classes online, thank you so much.

[playandteach]

Hi, Thanks for all the help. I'm new to the violin, and finding a dead spot at the beginning of each newly fingered note (whether or not I change bow); I have the sound going well, then add (or remove) a finger and the sound goes weak before kicking in again. I've tried changing the speed and weight of the left hand fingers, and changing pressure with the bow. Could you tell me which hand is at fault and how to cure it, please?

Many thanks again for your calm and considered approach.

[Faltaz]

I'm having a really hard time, trying to break that bad habit of bending back my pinky. If I stop focusing on my pinky for one second, it curles back into that horrible little knot. Do you have any suggestions on what would be a good way to attack the problem? Brute willpower? or forcing my pinky into a position where I can't bend it, using duct tape?

PS. Thank you for being so generous and sharing your knowledge with all of us. I love your videos.

[professorV]

Hi Faltaz, Try placing your pinky down before placing the other fingers, aim for the inside left corner of the finger tip. Then add the other fingers. This should set your hand up so you can reach all fingers easily. Now, practince silent trills with the pinky by only lifting the finger from the base knuckle. Stay relaxed and try to memorize what it feels like. After that, lift the 4th and trill with the 3rd, keeping the 4th loose and open. Re-program your hand and mind. Good luck!

[leelee050125]

Hi Professor V,

I am learning the Violin all the way in New Zealand. And I have to admit, that I suck really bad ! haha. I find your tutorials really good as you take your with 'the student' so to speak and I am grateful for that.

I have a violin of my own, and unfortunately my e-string broke ... and I was just wondering, how am I able to do another e without the actual e-string if that is possible? just until I get new strings...

Merci pour la lecon :D

[mangamania93]

Also, I'm subscribing to your videos. These really do help. Well, I gotta go figure out how to read sheet music. Again. Darn my forgetful 16 year old ADHD mind!

[mangamania93]

Well, this is confusing. I'm a beginner. Just got my violin a few weeks ago. I want an instructor, but we are pretty freakin poor, and lessons in my town cost $85 a month plus a $50 enlistment fee. If I am able to, I can get em. The only thing that confuses me is the placement of the fingers on the strings. Which finger goes on which string?

[eugenialukash]

Hi, Professor. I would like help my 4finger, it everytime stay to another note. How repair? Regards. And sorry english.

[nit323]

Hi!Great lessons!Thanks a lot!But I was also wondering if u cud also giv a tutorial on how to hit the notes...im a beginner with absolutely no exposure to playing an instrument, and i really want to learn to play the violin...it wud be of great help if u taught how to play the varios notes as well...

Thanx a lot once again!!!☺

[Azuriitko]

Maybe I am learning some song. And how can I find which note I have to play with fourth finger and which on open string? I am now learning Irish fiddle song King Of The Fairies, and I am not using open strings, because I want learn to use fourth finger. Can you say, that it is good or bad or no matter if I am using open strings or fourth finger?

[wilsocn]

Thanks for your videos. You give clear explanations which really helps a lot for someone like myself that doesnt have the chance to take formal lessons yet.

[mailmanforyou]

Your a good teacher. You have learned well from suzuki

[RyuMi2515]

Thankyouverymuch!I am 14 and I can play violin know.I reallywant to play violin but mom told me that I will just play piano.And I just ended in part4 because I don't have any passionof playing on it.I told to my mom that I will buy my own violin and find a teacher(but I don't have any amount of many for the tutor).he!One time,I will buy violin but she close my bank account.;Cbut my friend allowed me to barrow his violin and I very thankful to him.He show me this video and,Thank you verymuch!

[SparTanSSJ]

woah and now ur still playin violin?

[Ruthieeness]

Thankyou soo much for posting all these lessons, i'm getting a violin soon and i've wanted to be able to play for ages, but i can't afford lessons so these will really help!! Thankss!!

[dcasper90]

im hoppin to learn sumthin.... jaja... tnxxx for da video... apreciate it... srry 4 mahh english... kinda used 2 type dat way...

[pinkstahh]

Hey I was wondering, what is the suzuki music book called? I was about to order it, but .. there are two, and I'm not sure which one.

One is called, I Can Read Music, Volume 1

Another is called, Note Reading for Violin

[professorV]

Hi, What you want is Suzuki Violin School, Volume 1. The other books you mention are supplemental materials.

[arwenphoenix]

@professorV Hi ProfessorV...do you sell DVDs with your teaching method?

Where have you been my whole life?! LOL

[healing80]

Recently, I met a defrauder who pretended to know how to play the violin in the middle of changing a teacher. Finally, I just spent my money. -_-; However, I found your movie clips and I restart practicing the violin with your lectures. It is so helpful for me. Thanks a lot.

[razzigirl]

This is too confusing. why am i even bothering to learn violin?

[Aracnae]

First of all thank you for your instructions, they are really really useful and important for those who learn to play the violin. What i want to ask of you is for a solution for my fingers. They are a little fat and not very long. Is there a particular way to help me get used to the violin? or i will just get used to it after time?

[professorV]

Hi, Several of my favorite violinists had thick fingers, and they were perfect violinists. You should be able to learn to adjust, I think. Best of luck!

[nancymmv]

in the left hand the thumb finger is in front at the third finger? (sorry for my english!!) answer pleaseee!! XD

[EnvyPerse]

No it is not... it is by the first finger

[professorV]

Hi nancy mmv, I have my students place the thumb across from the first finger, or more specifically, the first fingernail.

[nancymmv]

MY TEACHER SAYS THAT THE FINGER TO GO CLOSER TO THE FINGER ON THE SECOND ONE ... GOOD MIND TO THINK THAT YOU LIKE ... THIS IS PART OF THE TECHNIQUE OF FUNDAMENTAL VIOLIN? SORRY FOR MY ENGLISH :p

[professorV]

I should add that I do adjust the position for students with different hand sizes. If they have a short 4th finger I often will set their thumb lower (under the neck), and sometime back towards the scroll.

[qa2123]

Your videos are absolutely wonderful. Thank you so much for providing such a valuable resource to violin students everywhere. I'm having a problem playing the interval C to E on the A string or G to B on the E string. Should I be able to keep both my 2nd and 4th fingers down ? I can only keep both fingers down if a distort my hand position by bending my wrist outward. I'm trying to play Wohlfarhrt op 74 #10. Any suggestions?

[professorV]

Hi, Try a couple of things. First, see if placing your thumb a little lower will help. If you have a short 4th finger this should give you a better chance (you could bring it all the way under the neck if needed). If that doesn't help enough, place your 4th finger alone, before you add the 2nd, to see if you can get used to pulling the lower fingers back instead of just stretching your 4th up. I hope that makes sense and that one of those ideas will work for you. Good luck!

[qa2123]

Thanks for your help. I found that both of your suggestions made playing the interval in tune easier but I still can't quite hold both fingers down together. Should I be able to? I'm 53 years old. Maybe my hand is not as flexible as it could be.

[professorV]

Just do what you can and be careful not to hurt your hand. It may become easier if you give it time.

[nancymmv]

in the left hand the thumb finger is in front at the third finger? (sorry for my english!!) answer pleaseee!! XD

[jamesblackburnlynch]

Todd,

I have one ore question about this. I can see where my fingers contact the strings after playing by lifting them up and looking at the tips of my fingers. For a short time there is an indentation in my finger where the string was.

But the line is not parallel to my finger. That is, it isn't the same direction. So, the lowest point is in the left quarter, but then the line crosses over the the middle of the finger, and beyond. Wrong?

[professorV]

James, You are correct. The string will cut across the fingertip and an angle. Viewed from the top, the first finger "groove" will look something like 8 to 12 on a clock. Regards, TE

[jamesblackburnlynch]

Tood,

I love these videos. But I'm struggling with this lesson. When I make contact with the thumb-side quarter of my index finger, I struggle to not interfere with next string (e.g. if I'm noting the D string, I get harmonics on the A string).

Your video talks about how the index finger needs to come in at an angle. But I just can't make this work.

Any advice?

[professorV]

Hi, It sounds like your left elbow needs to come under the violin a little more. As you move your left hand from the E to the A, A to D and D to G, rotate the elbow. Keep the wrist straight and pivot the whole arm as a unit. If you are bumping the A when you are on D, pivot a little more and watch the finger contact, it should move away from the A. Hope that helps.

[jamesblackburnlynch]

Yes, that was very helpful. It will still take lots of practice, and I still can't get my index finger to come in at the extreme angle you are doing, but I can see the finger moving away as I move my elbow, just as you say.

Two basic questions that I missed: 1) How much shoud one tighten the bow? and 2) How often to rosen the strings?

[SarahIluvatariel]

Todd, I've been learning violin for 2 months, now, & I've watched your videos right from the start. I place my left hand in the "V" position you mentioned. But I have "discovered" a nerve on the inside base of my index finger that gets pinched when I play and makes my finger go numb.

Any advice? Is there a different position I could use to avoid that nerve? How do I relax my left hand more (and still be able to press the strings down enough to make the right sound)?

[professorV]

Hi, I had a student with the same problem once before. In her case, we placed her thumb lower - under the neck, to support the weight of the instrument. This way she kept the base of her index completely free from contact. Some teachers teach this hold as it can help students avoid the squeezing of the neck (it can also help free up the vibrato if you are prone to squeezing). There is a drawback to this hold, but in your case it seems like the best option. Good luck.

[SarahIluvatariel]

Todd, Thanks so much for your videos! You're very generous to provide all this advice to the general public for free!  :) You're awesome!

[jsantana102]

prof v i think im an idiot cuz ive been playing 6 years een though i sound good but i replaced my pinky for my 3rd finger and i can never use my pinky cuz it will sound weird so thanks to you and showing me this video which i learned alot lol im gonna start all over and learn how to hold a violin properly thank you ^_^

[della888]

These lessons are very well put together! I don't own a violin yet, but always wanted to learn. I'm inspired to save up for one and start playing. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and talent.

[sytraxiplague]

That's amazing how many things apply similarly to guitar, for example, the curling of the pinky. Definitely a horrible habbit.

[mishoooo4]

I am left hand . Iwant to know if there is any defernces in the way of lernning

[samknul]

And yeah, i have a little spastic littlest finger. Would that be a problem?

[hildesmom]

Thanks, I really appreciate your straight-forward instructions. I'm 46 and just beginning to learn. I'm sure that I'm crazy, but it's fun.

[rubbersoulgirl84]

I haven't picked up a violin and played in 13 years! I just recently taking up lesson. These are helpful tips. Thanks!

[remixinglife]

Thank you Todd!

[frontman18]

good day professor V, o you have any lesson for left handed willing to learn violin??

[MichelleSeven]

I am 16 years old...and I just wondered...is it to laye to learn to play the violin...? I really really want to learn, but I am afraid that it is to late?

[professorV]

Hi MichelleSeven, I'm a firm believer in the potential of the older beginner. I never say 'can't', I say 'do'. I admit, it's a requirement that one must play their whole childhood to become a professional symphony violinist or soloist, the skills required take a lifetime to learn. But I have seen adults learn enough to play Vivaldi and Bach concertos, and even get into community orchestras. I've also seen them learn to play folk fiddle very well, and have a great time in the process. Do!

[MichelleSeven]

Thank you very much for your answere! It really encouraged me! Thank you very much, sir!

[rishimedicine]

Agreed.. I have started at the age of 37 and the whole process is exhilirating...gives me a high when even a I play even a small section of lesson correctly..

[dmmc1043]

someone told me that the left arm should be forward enough that you can see it in the corner of the eye, when i do that i feel a bit tense... someone else told me that it's absolute nonsense, all these different opinions are confusing me , can you tell us your opinion on this?

[xXMoonlightFlowerXx]

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your knowledge with us. Just wanted to express my deepest appreciation as the videos have been very helpful for beginners. By the way, I have a major problem with holding the bow right. Any advice??? Thx again

[violinbeginners]

Hi I have just started learning violin at 33yrs of age! I hope I can learn so much from this, I'm sure I will !!!!

[fiddlinmatt]

Hello professorV I have recently started studying the Kreutzer Etudes, and I'm dismayed to find that there are few vids of these Etudes on YouTube, and the ones that are there do not treat them in a thorough manner and certainly not in their totality. If you have the time could you do videos for the Kreutzer Etudes, discussing and/or playing through them. Thanks much!

Matt

[scooter500scooter500]

great tip on aiming for the left finger tips. that helps strengthen my 4th finger during it's placement on the strings

[thepharaohmummy]

String instruments have to be the most technically complex of all. I have so much respect for string instrument players.

[alexfermecatorul]

hy i`m from the romania pls take my id yahoo messneger un_baiat_dulche_4u by kiss

[crafzal]

You're doing a great service, your style is super, you should also release all your lessons on a CD.

[Q0time]

Hi,thanks a lot for the lessons. I have been playing for (18 months), I always had problem with positioning my fingers for the B and C in the A string as an example( same for all strings). The 1st finger slight left to right angle and the string position has released a lot of tension in my left hand, placement was so natural. it is so easy to find the right tune now. I am able to do things I could not before thanks a lot prof. I still have a lot of tension in my back, any help?

[chienx78]

hi,i just had my rd lesson yesterday. My teacher said we only use our tumb to support the violin on left hand, not other part of the hand, is it true?what is the best way to practice our left hand? she ask me to practice pressing the string in position repeating. is it correct?

[professorV]

I have known people that hold it like that. The thinking is (I believe) that you can reduce the risk of tension and avoid squeezing. Shifting to higher positions is probably a little easier as well since you are already "away" from the neck. I was watching Zuckerman recently, and he seemed to be holding the violin like that, proving it can be done by a master. Different people, different styles and techniques. Good luck with your violin!

[yerushalmit]

hi professor

Im learning violin for 6 weeks but still the finger thing is very hard for and i can't do it right... i have problem specially with the 4th finger...What can i do if my arms and my fingers are short? :(

[sexypiano]

I haven't realized I've been doing my first finger wrong all of the time ... I didn't know it was to be at an angle unless in fast passages. Thanks!

[professorV]

Hi, Let me try to be more clear; The 1st finger should come to the string at a slight left to right angle. This is a basic starting point and helps get the pinky up and over the fingerboard. This is the postition you will want for speed and articulation. Make sense?

[mygirlfanatic]

wish i can find a private teacher like you!!!

dont have a violin yet..but am guna beg my mum for one!!!!

haha...

i was gunna ask if starting at 15 is too old but you told efchix that 'your never too old' so thanks for that!!!

i appreciate it a lot!!!

that boost my confidence...really,,

[efchix]

Oh my god, you are just perfect teacher- all answers, I could imagine to ask. I started to play on my own, than had few classical teachers, but they said that I'm too old anyway, and that normal sound is prior. Now I can play "normal sound" and I want more, but some old technical mistakes I must repair... now on my own. Now, when I found Your video lessons, I believe, that I can do it!THANK YOU! :)

[professorV]

You're never too old. I've seen some some amazing things with adult students! A private teacher that works with adults (and understands their difficulties) could be of help to you. The trick is finding the right teacher... Anyway, thanks for your kind post!

[professorV]

Hi Erika, Thanks for the very nice comment! You are very welcome and I hope you'll have a great time learning the violin. I know you'd learn even faster by having direct feedback from a private teacher - so at least consider looking for one. A video can't replace the real thing! Good luck with your studies and please let me know how it's coming along! TE

[ErikaTrueman]

I have just bought my first violin and was thrilled to find your videos. I shall make use of them ad infinitum... Many thanks for sharing your skills and for your superb way of teaching. It will be a pleasure and priviledge to learn from you. Erika