#practicingviolin replacement shifts in #violinconcerto in #aminor by #jbaccolay These shifts are challenging because the #stringplayer must change position while playing the same note. The opening of this #concerto is challenging as it contains two such shifts in the first phrase! Here’s how I practice mm 23-4 and 120-1: Three videos: 1) Shift back and forth slowly. In the piece, these shifts are descending; however it is useful to practice the shifts in both directions. Listen carefully to match the pitch before and after the shift. Make sure the motion is smooth and comfortable and the finger lands securely after each shift. The arm (not the finger) accomplishes the “transportation” to the new position. Notice how my arm swings back and forth across my body for the 5th-3rd position shift. For the 3rd-2nd position shift my arm shifts and the fingers just lift and drop appropriately at the shift destination. ~swipe left~ 2) Shift a bit faster in rhythms ending in the lower and upper positions, alternatively. I practice with a “Huckleberry Finn” rhythm - holding each “Finn” longer so I can hear it clearly. Make sure the shifts are still coming from the arm and the fingers are placed comfortably and do not feel stretched out of position at the shift arrival. ~swipe left~ 3) Performance version - shifts are in tune, easy and smooth, allowing me to focus on the intense #musicalexpression of the phrase! #violinteacher #violinist #violinplayer #viola #violintechnique #violinpedagogy #violintips #violinista #violapractice #violinlesson #violinclass #violinguy #violinworld #violinstagram #violinista #stringsattached #practiceroom #lingling40hours @paoyi_2005 (at Washington D.C.) https://www.instagram.com/p/CRQ8PWdgBEQ/?utm_medium=tumblr
