Every one of your videos is giving me a little more insight than I had before. I'd say you're the best teacher I've seen online! And your sense of humour (or just your communication style) is lovely, The occasional laugh must make your students really relaxed :)
+Douglas W. Bush, M.A. Hi Douglas, just to be clear, that was not me saying "I sense a hint of sarcasm"....I have no idea who that is! I am not that cynical! THANK YOU for your sweet comment. I hope you are making great progress in your violin quest!
I am very happy to have discovered you on youtube. After 10 years of not playing well at all, I noticed that you give a few advice and tricks that my teacher never told me about. I am going through your videos when i find available time. I liked very much your explanation about holding the violin with your head, just with a simple movement, that I never knew before. It made a big difference in the way I play. Thank you for the time you spend to teach us these little details...
This presentation was, singularly, the most illuminating that I've encountered as I continue in my attempt to secure the fundamentals of bowing mechanics. A very appreciative thank you.
I am a beginner, and I just have to say: thank you, thank you!! Thank you for such great tutorials! I have discovered that this isn't the easiest instrument to play, so I appreciate you sharing your expertise :)
I'm glad they are helpful to you. I know you also have a private teacher. That's great! It's nice to have someone RIGHT THERE who can make corrections right in the moment!
Other RUclips lessons I've seen have a basic explanation on the violin bow hold, to the point where I would incorrectly assume the bow hold is static. You however, went further to show that it's actually more a dynamic hold that is changing depending on the positioning of your bow arm. I've always had a bit of doubt playing the violin as I knew my fingers were definitely shifting slightly, and thinking I'm doing something wrong. A big thank you for time in explaining the mechanics involved as well as the proper form. I'll be thinking about it every time I practise now! :)
Exhausting job. I study violin playing on conservatory and still have problems with bow technics because of re- teaching it. What a man that an another opinion. You help me too. Thank You. I do practise.. :)
very illuminating! many many thanks for the precise explanation and detailed demonstration. you are the best teacher I have ever met either on- or offline.
Thanks very much RedDesertViolin, I would never have guessed that it was from the string itself. I had all my strings that were "Pirastro". I did what you advised, and I changed the D string and put a cheap D string instead, while adjusting the bridge position. It's a lot better now. I am waiting to find a store that sells separate strings, to buy a better one, as I don't want to buy a whole pack and have a defective D string again in the pack. Thanks a lot.
Thank you very much . I really don’t know how to put my index finger before watching your video. Thank you for your sharing the tips to us. I will try your technique tomorrow.
Thank you very much for these videos. I have a student I've been trying to explain this very concept to with limited lesson time, and this makes a great supplement.
What a great vid! I've been doing the holds exactly backwards, so now I know why I'm having some of the problems I'm having. I wish I'd seen this a long time ago. Thanks so much.
if you are on a classical pursuit, then you might explore blending some of the Russian bow hold in with what I am teaching......or even go purely Russian. The Russian hold requires much less flexibility in the fingers, and less bending from the thumb. To see some good examples of the Russian hold, look at Heifetz and Nathan Milstein on YOuTube. You CAN adapt your bow hold to accommodate your stubby fingers! You just have to get creative!
+Donnavan Dillon Glad it helped. We all have different "geometry" and proportions. My hands are pretty small. Some violinists I know have HUGE hands (and so did Paganini and Perlman).....and they seem so relaxed and make it look so easy. Keep striving...you will find your zone.
I have learned so much from your lessons. You are an exceptional teacher, and explain clearly the mechanics of bowing. Thank you so much. I am interested in taking online lessons from you, but don’t know where to begin?
Hi Terry, thank you for the kind words. Do you mean, you don't know what CLASS to take, or you don't know where to FIND my classes? My classes are all located at www.RedDesertViolin. You'll see a big list down at the bottom, like a restaurant menu with descriptions. If you are totally self-taught and don't consider yourself proficient in technique, then I would start with Suzuki Book 1, even if you want to learn fiddle. If you are proficient in basic violin technique, then you can choose Suzuki Book 2, or the Fiddle class, depending on your style preference. You can also email me for help with this decision. lora@reddesertviolin.com. And lastly......today is the last day of a pretty decent sale, it will save you $15 on your initial sign-up. Talk to you soon!
@NataliaNKar I'm glad it helped. I remember the day I realized what I was supposed to do, and wondered why no one had ever explained to me that our bow hand changes from the frog to the tip!!! :-)
I have fallen in love with your videos. First video I've seen showing that its not unusual for your pinky to let loose when you have small hands or are of short stature. I was kicking myself for letting that happen. I have had my first violin for barely 24 hours but have been interested and watching videos for a long time.
Thanks, Robv60! WOW, just got your first violin? How exciting! I am amazed at what self-taught violinists can accomplish using the internet! Nothing can replace consistent practice and determination and grit! If you decide you want more help than just youtube, come check out my beginners course here: www.reddesertviolin.com/onlineviolinlessons/. BEST of luck to you!
Brilliant! I think this combines the Russian hold and the Franco-Belgian hold. You may have just prevented World War Three! Now I have to look at my bowing again.
Thanks for letting me know what the problem was! Yeah, it is rare, but sometimes you get a lemon string! (I have never in my life gotten a lemon! It's pretty rare) You can buy single strings from any online company...Southwest, Share, Strings-n-Things, etc.
Absolutely helpful video, Lora. Thank you 1 I heard many People discussing about the Bow Hold, and it has become almost an issue. The Bow is constant, but Fingers are shorter or longer. I feel some personal adjustment is required, but the basic is as per your video. Thank you. Happy New Year 2013.
Well, keep in mind that my way of holding the bow is only one of MANY ways. I would say there are about 3 MAJOR different classical ways of holding the bow. (just a wild guess) and there are about 3-4 major ways of holding the bow for non-classical styles. One way is called "Thumb Under the Frog" which is just my beginner's bow hold.....and fiddlers SWEAR by it. Another major way is to "choke up" on the bow, so that your fingers are mostly on the lapping. But, if you are on a classical path,
Hey Blacksquaretable, so if you were my student, we would not even be worrying about the two bow holds. We would play in the middle of the bow, where our bow hold can stay the same, and we would make sure your thumb and pinky stay bent, your bow stays straight, and your elbow is moving, not your shoulder. (the 2 bow holds is a little more advanced.....so go ahead and wait on this technique)
Your such a good teacher!! Thank you! I did have a question for you... My bow likes to skid allot and doing this seem to make that worse probably because I'm exaggerating the motion too much huh?? Also thanks for pointing out that the pad of the index finger stays pretty much in the same spot because when my hand is relaxed like I've been told is the goal the frog twists in my hand so I feel like there is no control 🤷 any advise?
I'm learning Lora's orange blossom special. I looks like you are only using the frog bow hold since there doesn't seem to be enough time to change holds. Is that correct or is there a different hold for fast fiddle music? All replies will be appreciated. Tnx jVince
+anahuic Hi Anahuic, that is a GREAT observation. The reason it looks like I am only using the frog bow hold is because in the OBS, we only use small bows, not WHOLE BIG BOWS. So, my bow hold does not make a big change between the tip bow hold and the frog. It sort of stays "inbetween", because I"m mostly playing in the middle of the bow, fingers bent and flexible, similar to the frog. You are asking the right questions! Keep up the good work!
Look at your index finger. The joint closest to the tip is the distal interphalangeal joint AKA DIP. Distal means toward the end. The small bones in the fingers and toes are called phalanges. Inter means between. In the index finger, the joint toward the tip of the finger ie distal and between two phalanges is the distal interphalangeal joint. In between your two black marks in the video is another joint of the index finger called the proximal interplanangeal joint. Proximal means closer to the origin of the limb or digit. You may see this Proximal Interphalangeal joint abbreviated as PIP. Note that the thumb only has one such joint so it is designated the interphalangeal joint or IP. In the palm of the hand is one bone for each finger, the metacarpal bone. There are 8 little bones in the wrist, called carpals. The bones in the palm are changed or different from carpals and are called metacarpals. The joint between a metacarpal bone and the first phalanges of a finger are called metacarpophalangeal joints (MCP) You can also refer to the black lines as proximal and distal. The proximal black line is closer to the palm of the hand. The distal black line is the one closer to the finger tip. Reference: Grays anatomy, Moore Anatomy, Grants atlas...or some similar text.
Not the easiest instrument? That's for sure! I think it is probably one of the hardest instruments! (but it's worth the effort!) Good luck to you, glad you find my vids helpful.
My right thumb pivots inward at the tip and this makes it travel upward slightly in return. I have to keep adjusting my thumb back. Should I curl my index finger around the stick at the tip to prevent my thumb from pivoting?
Hi Sylvia, Definitely do NOT wrap your index finger. That is wrong in every sense. The THUMB is debateable. Many students think the thumb has to remain at a certain angle....and they try to adhere to that angle. Keep these rules in mind, and it should help: The thumb should be bent at all times. (more bent at the frog, and naturally less bent at the tip....it's just a necessity of our anatomy). Also, it is the CORNER TIPyour thumb that sits on the bow. (the corner that is closest to index finger). Finally, make sure your thumb is not poking through under the hair. Your thumb should park so that half of the contact is on your thumb leather, and the other half is on the...the.....the.....ack....what's it called....that little ebony knob that sits on the slide? Hopefully you know what I'm talking about.....I used to know what it was called.
Lora you are a star!! Thank you so much for this video. My problen is that I have very long fingers and I feel my bow gripping is kind of more unstable. When trying collé I find myself having to hold the bow with less fingers.Does this sound wrong to you? And I would be more than greatful if you could do a video on best ways to avoid the "holes" in sound when changing direction of the bow. I cannot get a smooth transition.Do you recomnend to reduce weight on the bow just before change of direction?? I have already watched your collé video . Mil gracias!!!!⚘ Greatings from Spain. Rosa.
Rosa, long fingers are a blessing on violin! But sometimes, you have to figure out what to do with the "extra". It can be awkward in vibrato, and now that you mention it, possibly with bow hold as well. But trust me, it IS an advantage when it's all said and done! Colle': your description sounds wrong to me, even considering your long fingers. I have a video series called "Learn from the Pros". (it's not a public series, it's private) But the general concept is: FIND A PROFESSIONAL VIOLINIST on RUclips WITH YOUR SAME PHYSICAL FEATURE that is giving you trouble, and emulate them. So, you must find violinists with long fingers, and study their bow hold and use of colle'. (Leonid Kogan is a great place to start, since there are no live videos of Paganini!) I can't think of any others off the bat, but if you look around on RUclips, you will be able to spot really long fingers by comparing them proportionally to the violin. About the "holes" in tone: this is a SUPER complicated topic, and I'll have to really do my homework to to it right, but it's a great idea. I'll work on it, but I'll leave you with some thoughts: I think you are OVER-USING colle'. That is the BIGGEST cause of "holes" during bow changes. You need to observe: are the holes the worst at the tip or the frog? (this is a big hint for what you need to work on) If they are biggest at the frog, then it's too much colle', or maybe faulty colle'. If the holes are big at the tip, then it's more complicated, but it could also be your fingers are "flipping" during the bow change....again, too much effort, too much colle'. Then, there is some special magic from crooked bow, and tilting the bow, and drawing arcs in the air.....this is where I need to do my homework. I will definitely see what I can put together...but I can't promise to alert you when it's ready. Are you subscribed? Thanks for a great question.
@@RedDesertViolin Muchas gracias Lora, for your detailed explanation and for taking so much interest in my questions. I will follow your advices and will also analyze where excactly on the bow my sound holes do locate . I am subscribed from the day i saw one of your videos a few years ago. I will be looking forward to watch your future videos!! You are the best violin teacher I have come across on RUclips!!! Great work , congrats!!!! And thank you for your generosity!! You deserve the best!! Saludos, Rosa.
Awesome! That is funny....because I once had a Russian bow hold....(from imitating my Russian teacher), and then in my Master's program, I was encouraged to switch to the Franco-Belgian hold....I guess I didn't quite get all the RUssian out of me.....I like to think I kept the best parts!
Well, whatever you call the hold, I am sweeping the bow over the fingerboard A LOT LESS after applying your suggestion. Of course, that means the tone is better, the harmonics work more reliably, and the chords don't smash and crunch as much. But you knew that already, didn't you? Thanks, thanks, thanks!
Thank you for the time you spend to teach us these little details that are so important, and that most teachers do not pay attention. I would like to ask you an advice: After I changed the bow hair, I cannot play on the 3rd string (D string) any more. Rosining the bow or not, I have to press a lot on the bow to be able to play on it. I don't find it normal. I can't play pianissimo on it,especially when I end playing on that string. Do you think I have to change the string or the bridge?
That is really weird! My first guess would be not enough rosin. Next, I would inspect your bridge, make sure it is up straight, and not warped. Next, check that the string is not "pinched" in the bridge groove. Finally, try changing the string. Let me know what you discover! --L
I have come across a learning experience, and that is comparing bow arm and wrist, finger hold of Heifetz, Perlman, and Anne K Meyers on you tube violin performance. Laughing at your exaggerated bow hold frog, tip is exactly how Heifetz holds his bow!! WOW! I’m impressed!
Terry, I am interested to know what videos you compared. (or is it compiled into one comparison?) I am teaching my SUzuki Book 4 students how to "Learn from the Pros" by doing exactly what you are describing, and I'd like to use your comparison, if you still remember. (if not....DO NOT WORRY about it)
Red Desert Violin Hi, I can send the 3 videos to your e-mail. All 3 are playing Saint Saens, Intro and Rondo Capricccioso. Anne Akiko Meyers. ruclips.net/video/1lGZx8CGoTU/видео.html Next is Jascha Heifetz. ruclips.net/video/DR6CGXnelul/видео.html Then, Itzhak Perlman. youtu.be/BnsPny:Ldrw If these don’t go through, just type in search you tube Itzhak Perlman Introduction & Rondo Cappriccioso
I'm a beginner and am kind of learning the violin on my own. My hand hurts a lot when I let my pinky tilt the bow. Do I require more practice? btw, thanks a lot for the video, it is very helpful :)
It sounds like you are playing with too much tension. That is one of the HARDEST things to learn: to relax while playing this difficult instrument. Try playing VERY quietly....it is easier to relax when you are not trying to play loud. Also, you do not have to tilt the bow....if it hurts, simply do not tilt it.
You are wonderful and I am the beneficiary of all your videos but I have a question When I play the violin, my back hurts me Is there any advice to avoid pain / thanks Ekram from Egypt
Hi Ekram! Where does your back hurt? If it's upper back, it could be your set-up (chin rest and shoulder rest). If it's lower back, it could be something else. Do you stand or sit to practice? My MAIN advice is 3 things: 1) Make sure you have a good set-up that allows you to play and hold your violin naturally and effortlessly 2) ALWAYS be on the look-out for tension. Tension causes pain and pain usually indicates tension. 3) MOVE! Do not stand or sit like a statue when you play. MOVE AROUND like a tree swaying in a breeze. Whenever I have to stand and film in front of my camera, I try to stand very still, and it forces me to STOP my natural movement......and I ALWAYS get pain after filming. (that's when I learned the importance of free movement....because I never had pain before!)
You just need rosin. You will need to order some on the internet, or go to a violin shop and get some. I prefer dark amber or black/green rosin. When bows are brand new, the horse hair doesn't have any rosin on it, and without rosin, we can't play a single note! Good luck on your violin!
Wow. You are even shorter than my 5'2"! I feel like I am stretching for 4/4 violin, I'm sure you struggle. YES, it's ok to let go of pinky rather than strain your bow hand. I would encourage you to get a 7/8 violin. They are getting more and more common. I have a student who has bought a couple, and they were NICE. If you need contact info, let me know. I am not sure about the 3/4 bow. I really don't know how to answer. I do NOT think it will hurt. I really don't.
Thank you for this video. Just one question, why not place the toilet paper roll where the violin strings would actually be, instead of on your shoulder?
That's a really good question. The reason is....by placing the tp core on your shoulder like a bazooka, it creates a trajectory that trains students to bow STRAIGHT....by forcing the bow out front of us....that's actually the trajectory our bow must take in order to play straight on the G string. So, it seems totally wrong and off.....but if you carefully study the position your bow is in when playing perfectly straight on the G string, it's the same position the t.p. core forces you into when you hold it on your shoulder. (test it out....and tell me if you agree)
No, it doesn't mean it's wrong! There are numerous ways to hold the bow...there's the Franco Belgian, the Russian, and little variations within those 2 main bow holds. You could ask your teacher what bow hold he/she is teaching you, just for your own information.
Ok, true confessions. I looked up Jan and Dean.....and I didn't think I made any reference to surf music. Please enlighten me! :-) And YES, I know their songs, I just didn't know their names!!!! Sue me! :-)
Listen to Surf City People use the 2 something for every something alot to copy the phrase . You might want to check out Jan & Dean and the Bel Aire Pops Symphony in 12 hit Movements Jan was the first R & R Artist to put his hits to a symphony Liberty had a shit fit and the album got no promotion , Jan wanted to show kids that R&R wasnt that far removed from Classical w Hal Blaine drums Tommy Tedesco electric guitar.
Yes, I'm aware of that. I tried doing that for awhile, because I thought it looked really cool. It didn't really DO anything....helpful or otherwise.....so I don't teach my students to do that. But yes, to each her own, and you are welcome to disagree! ;-)
This video should win an award.
Your comment is my awarded thanks Arno!
Every one of your videos is giving me a little more insight than I had before. I'd say you're the best teacher I've seen online!
And your sense of humour (or just your communication style) is lovely, The occasional laugh must make your students really relaxed :)
Thanks for your feedback! I'm so glad you enjoy the lessons!
Thank you VERY MUCH for this video! What a difference it makes in learning the right way to hold the bow.
I sense a hint of sarcasm
Oh, no, not at all. I was being very genuine. I enjoy all of your videos! :) Thank you again.
+Douglas W. Bush, M.A. Hi Douglas, just to be clear, that was not me saying "I sense a hint of sarcasm"....I have no idea who that is! I am not that cynical! THANK YOU for your sweet comment. I hope you are making great progress in your violin quest!
I am on the 4th minute so far and i can tell you this is like best video on straight bow on the youtube so thank you for this :)
Thanks, Alex. I appreciate that very much. Glad it helped!
You are one smart lady:). I must have looked at 20 or 30 videos on bow hold and got nothing out of them. This one video explains it ALL! Well done!!!
SO happy to hear that, Bill! Thanks for the comment! Keep up the good work!
Hello Dear Teacher, I was amazed by the way you teach and your enthusiasm for teaching and helping others. I really appreciate your help
I am very happy to have discovered you on youtube. After 10 years of not playing well at all, I noticed that you give a few advice and tricks that my teacher never told me about. I am going through your videos when i find available time. I liked very much your explanation about holding the violin with your head, just with a simple movement, that I never knew before. It made a big difference in the way I play. Thank you for the time you spend to teach us these little details...
This presentation was, singularly, the most illuminating that I've encountered as I continue in my attempt to secure the fundamentals of bowing mechanics. A very appreciative thank you.
I am a beginner, and I just have to say: thank you, thank you!! Thank you for such great tutorials! I have discovered that this isn't the easiest instrument to play, so I appreciate you sharing your expertise :)
I'm glad they are helpful to you. I know you also have a private teacher. That's great! It's nice to have someone RIGHT THERE who can make corrections right in the moment!
A thorough and in depth lesson. Thank you
Other RUclips lessons I've seen have a basic explanation on the violin bow hold, to the point where I would incorrectly assume the bow hold is static. You however, went further to show that it's actually more a dynamic hold that is changing depending on the positioning of your bow arm. I've always had a bit of doubt playing the violin as I knew my fingers were definitely shifting slightly, and thinking I'm doing something wrong. A big thank you for time in explaining the mechanics involved as well as the proper form. I'll be thinking about it every time I practise now! :)
I'm so glad it made sense to you and helped!
Exhausting job. I study violin playing on conservatory and still have problems with bow technics because of re- teaching it. What a man that an another opinion. You help me too. Thank You. I do practise.. :)
Thank you for exercise. I am Brazilian , and I'm really enjoying your lessons.
very illuminating! many many thanks for the precise explanation and detailed demonstration. you are the best teacher I have ever met either on- or offline.
I hope my video helped you. Thanks for posting! Good luck!
Thanks very much RedDesertViolin, I would never have guessed that it was from the string itself. I had all my strings that were "Pirastro". I did what you advised, and I changed the D string and put a cheap D string instead, while adjusting the bridge position. It's a lot better now. I am waiting to find a store that sells separate strings, to buy a better one, as I don't want to buy a whole pack and have a defective D string again in the pack. Thanks a lot.
I have been looking for this video for a long time.
So detailed and clear .
You are a fantastic teacher.Thank you so much for sharing .
Thanks for watching and your comment. Keep up the good work!
Thank you very much . I really don’t know how to put my index finger before watching your video. Thank you for your sharing the tips to us. I will try your technique tomorrow.
Thank you very much for these videos. I have a student I've been trying to explain this very concept to with limited lesson time, and this makes a great supplement.
Wonderful! Nice to meet fellow teachers!
What a great vid! I've been doing the holds exactly backwards, so now I know why I'm having some of the problems I'm having. I wish I'd seen this a long time ago. Thanks so much.
Hooray! SO glad it shed some light for you! I didn't realize the two bow holds until late in my career.....better late than never!
if you are on a classical pursuit, then you might explore blending some of the Russian bow hold in with what I am teaching......or even go purely Russian. The Russian hold requires much less flexibility in the fingers, and less bending from the thumb. To see some good examples of the Russian hold, look at Heifetz and Nathan Milstein on YOuTube. You CAN adapt your bow hold to accommodate your stubby fingers! You just have to get creative!
Thank you for this!
Thanks a lot, very value lesson, comments and hints. Really thanks
thanks
Thank you soooo much for this video this skill has been super hard for me considering i have super large disproportionate hands but this has helped
+Donnavan Dillon Glad it helped. We all have different "geometry" and proportions. My hands are pretty small. Some violinists I know have HUGE hands (and so did Paganini and Perlman).....and they seem so relaxed and make it look so easy. Keep striving...you will find your zone.
I have learned so much from your lessons. You are an exceptional teacher, and explain clearly the mechanics of bowing. Thank you so much. I am interested in taking online lessons from you, but don’t know where to begin?
Hi Terry, thank you for the kind words. Do you mean, you don't know what CLASS to take, or you don't know where to FIND my classes? My classes are all located at www.RedDesertViolin. You'll see a big list down at the bottom, like a restaurant menu with descriptions. If you are totally self-taught and don't consider yourself proficient in technique, then I would start with Suzuki Book 1, even if you want to learn fiddle. If you are proficient in basic violin technique, then you can choose Suzuki Book 2, or the Fiddle class, depending on your style preference. You can also email me for help with this decision. lora@reddesertviolin.com. And lastly......today is the last day of a pretty decent sale, it will save you $15 on your initial sign-up. Talk to you soon!
thank you so much for this ...im trying to improve my bow changes that really helps
Great! I hope it will help you! Good luck!
Great teaching,that's awesome
Thank you!
@NataliaNKar I'm glad it helped. I remember the day I realized what I was supposed to do, and wondered why no one had ever explained to me that our bow hand changes from the frog to the tip!!! :-)
I have fallen in love with your videos. First video I've seen showing that its not unusual for your pinky to let loose when you have small hands or are of short stature. I was kicking myself for letting that happen. I have had my first violin for barely 24 hours but have been interested and watching videos for a long time.
Thanks, Robv60! WOW, just got your first violin? How exciting!
I am amazed at what self-taught violinists can accomplish using the internet! Nothing can replace consistent practice and determination and grit!
If you decide you want more help than just youtube, come check out my beginners course here: www.reddesertviolin.com/onlineviolinlessons/.
BEST of luck to you!
Brilliant! I think this combines the Russian hold and the Franco-Belgian hold. You may have just prevented World War Three!
Now I have to look at my bowing again.
You are a good teacher, thank you.
Great video. Thanks, Lora!
Thanks for letting me know what the problem was! Yeah, it is rare, but sometimes you get a lemon string! (I have never in my life gotten a lemon! It's pretty rare)
You can buy single strings from any online company...Southwest, Share, Strings-n-Things, etc.
best tutorial videos ever
Thank you very much, Rabia!
Cool Jan & Dean reference !
Great Lesson! Thanks
thanks! i appreciate it!
Absolutely helpful video, Lora. Thank you 1
I heard many People discussing about the Bow Hold, and it has become almost an issue. The Bow is constant, but Fingers are shorter or longer. I feel some personal adjustment is required, but the basic is as per your video. Thank you.
Happy New Year 2013.
Great lesson. A lot to think about. Now where can I find a TP roll? Hmmm.
Thanks!
Well, keep in mind that my way of holding the bow is only one of MANY ways. I would say there are about 3 MAJOR different classical ways of holding the bow. (just a wild guess) and there are about 3-4 major ways of holding the bow for non-classical styles. One way is called "Thumb Under the Frog" which is just my beginner's bow hold.....and fiddlers SWEAR by it. Another major way is to "choke up" on the bow, so that your fingers are mostly on the lapping. But, if you are on a classical path,
the toilet paper roll idea is brilliant! Thanks for this video!
Yes, my students all laugh at that one.
LOL....yes, I knew that already, but it's good to have it validated! Thanks!
Cripes! I actually can't do any of that to save my life - that explains a few things! Thanks, this has given me some insight!
Hey Blacksquaretable, so if you were my student, we would not even be worrying about the two bow holds. We would play in the middle of the bow, where our bow hold can stay the same, and we would make sure your thumb and pinky stay bent, your bow stays straight, and your elbow is moving, not your shoulder. (the 2 bow holds is a little more advanced.....so go ahead and wait on this technique)
Your such a good teacher!! Thank you! I did have a question for you... My bow likes to skid allot and doing this seem to make that worse probably because I'm exaggerating the motion too much huh?? Also thanks for pointing out that the pad of the index finger stays pretty much in the same spot because when my hand is relaxed like I've been told is the goal the frog twists in my hand so I feel like there is no control 🤷 any advise?
I'm learning Lora's orange blossom special. I looks like you are only using the frog bow hold since there doesn't seem to be enough time to change holds. Is that correct or is there a different hold for fast fiddle music? All replies will be appreciated. Tnx jVince
+anahuic Hi Anahuic, that is a GREAT observation. The reason it looks like I am only using the frog bow hold is because in the OBS, we only use small bows, not WHOLE BIG BOWS. So, my bow hold does not make a big change between the tip bow hold and the frog. It sort of stays "inbetween", because I"m mostly playing in the middle of the bow, fingers bent and flexible, similar to the frog. You are asking the right questions! Keep up the good work!
Look at your index finger. The joint closest to the tip is the distal interphalangeal joint AKA DIP. Distal means toward the end. The small bones in the fingers and toes are called phalanges. Inter means between. In the index finger, the joint toward the tip of the finger ie distal and between two phalanges is the distal interphalangeal joint. In between your two black marks in the video is another joint of the index finger called the proximal interplanangeal joint. Proximal means closer to the origin of the limb or digit. You may see this Proximal Interphalangeal joint abbreviated as PIP. Note that the thumb only has one such joint so it is designated the interphalangeal joint or IP. In the palm of the hand is one bone for each finger, the metacarpal bone. There are 8 little bones in the wrist, called carpals. The bones in the palm are changed or different from carpals and are called metacarpals. The joint between a metacarpal bone and the first phalanges of a finger are called metacarpophalangeal joints (MCP)
You can also refer to the black lines as proximal and distal. The proximal black line is closer to the palm of the hand. The distal black line is the one closer to the finger tip.
Reference: Grays anatomy, Moore Anatomy, Grants atlas...or some similar text.
Cool! Thanks for the anatomy lesson! Great to know the terms I need!
Not the easiest instrument? That's for sure! I think it is probably one of the hardest instruments! (but it's worth the effort!) Good luck to you, glad you find my vids helpful.
My right thumb pivots inward at the tip and this makes it travel upward slightly in return. I have to keep adjusting my thumb back. Should I curl my index finger around the stick at the tip to prevent my thumb from pivoting?
Hi Sylvia, Definitely do NOT wrap your index finger. That is wrong in every sense. The THUMB is debateable. Many students think the thumb has to remain at a certain angle....and they try to adhere to that angle. Keep these rules in mind, and it should help: The thumb should be bent at all times. (more bent at the frog, and naturally less bent at the tip....it's just a necessity of our anatomy). Also, it is the CORNER TIPyour thumb that sits on the bow. (the corner that is closest to index finger). Finally, make sure your thumb is not poking through under the hair. Your thumb should park so that half of the contact is on your thumb leather, and the other half is on the...the.....the.....ack....what's it called....that little ebony knob that sits on the slide? Hopefully you know what I'm talking about.....I used to know what it was called.
Lora you are a star!! Thank you so much for this video.
My problen is that I have very long fingers and I feel my bow gripping is kind of more unstable. When trying collé I find myself having to hold the bow with less fingers.Does this sound wrong to you?
And I would be more than greatful if you could do a video on best ways to avoid the "holes" in sound when changing direction of the bow. I cannot get a smooth transition.Do you recomnend to reduce weight on the bow just before change of direction?? I have already watched your collé video .
Mil gracias!!!!⚘
Greatings from Spain.
Rosa.
Rosa, long fingers are a blessing on violin! But sometimes, you have to figure out what to do with the "extra". It can be awkward in vibrato, and now that you mention it, possibly with bow hold as well. But trust me, it IS an advantage when it's all said and done!
Colle': your description sounds wrong to me, even considering your long fingers.
I have a video series called "Learn from the Pros". (it's not a public series, it's private) But the general concept is: FIND A PROFESSIONAL VIOLINIST on RUclips WITH YOUR SAME PHYSICAL FEATURE that is giving you trouble, and emulate them.
So, you must find violinists with long fingers, and study their bow hold and use of colle'. (Leonid Kogan is a great place to start, since there are no live videos of Paganini!) I can't think of any others off the bat, but if you look around on RUclips, you will be able to spot really long fingers by comparing them proportionally to the violin.
About the "holes" in tone: this is a SUPER complicated topic, and I'll have to really do my homework to to it right, but it's a great idea. I'll work on it, but I'll leave you with some thoughts:
I think you are OVER-USING colle'. That is the BIGGEST cause of "holes" during bow changes.
You need to observe: are the holes the worst at the tip or the frog? (this is a big hint for what you need to work on)
If they are biggest at the frog, then it's too much colle', or maybe faulty colle'.
If the holes are big at the tip, then it's more complicated, but it could also be your fingers are "flipping" during the bow change....again, too much effort, too much colle'.
Then, there is some special magic from crooked bow, and tilting the bow, and drawing arcs in the air.....this is where I need to do my homework. I will definitely see what I can put together...but I can't promise to alert you when it's ready. Are you subscribed?
Thanks for a great question.
@@RedDesertViolin Muchas gracias Lora, for your detailed explanation and for taking so much interest in my questions. I will follow your advices and will also analyze where excactly on the bow my sound holes do locate .
I am subscribed from the day i saw one of your videos a few years ago.
I will be looking forward to watch your future videos!!
You are the best violin teacher I have come across on RUclips!!! Great work , congrats!!!!
And thank you for your generosity!! You deserve the best!!
Saludos, Rosa.
Awesome! That is funny....because I once had a Russian bow hold....(from imitating my Russian teacher), and then in my Master's program, I was encouraged to switch to the Franco-Belgian hold....I guess I didn't quite get all the RUssian out of me.....I like to think I kept the best parts!
Hello my good teacher
l hope you are fine .
Could you teach to chopan noctorn 20 ... plealse 🙏🙏🙏
Well, whatever you call the hold, I am sweeping the bow over the fingerboard A LOT LESS after applying your suggestion. Of course, that means the tone is better, the harmonics work more reliably, and the chords don't smash and crunch as much. But you knew that already, didn't you?
Thanks, thanks, thanks!
Thank you for the time you spend to teach us these little details that are so important, and that most teachers do not pay attention.
I would like to ask you an advice: After I changed the bow hair, I cannot play on the 3rd string (D string) any more. Rosining the bow or not, I have to press a lot on the bow to be able to play on it. I don't find it normal. I can't play pianissimo on it,especially when I end playing on that string. Do you think I have to change the string or the bridge?
Where is the video with the jellyfish excercises? Thank you!
The jellyfish lesson is in my Suzuki Book 1 course. (sorry) But I might talk about it in this video: ruclips.net/video/Z2t5Nrust9Y/видео.html
Thx
That is really weird! My first guess would be not enough rosin. Next, I would inspect your bridge, make sure it is up straight, and not warped. Next, check that the string is not "pinched" in the bridge groove. Finally, try changing the string. Let me know what you discover! --L
Gotta keep watching you, and with a mirror keep practicing this!
Mirrors do wonderful things for violin students!
I have come across a learning experience, and that is comparing bow arm and wrist, finger hold of Heifetz, Perlman, and Anne K Meyers on you tube violin performance. Laughing at your exaggerated bow hold frog, tip is exactly how Heifetz holds his bow!! WOW! I’m impressed!
Terry, I am interested to know what videos you compared. (or is it compiled into one comparison?) I am teaching my SUzuki Book 4 students how to "Learn from the Pros" by doing exactly what you are describing, and I'd like to use your comparison, if you still remember. (if not....DO NOT WORRY about it)
Red Desert Violin Hi, I can send the 3 videos to your e-mail. All 3 are playing Saint Saens, Intro and Rondo Capricccioso.
Anne Akiko Meyers. ruclips.net/video/1lGZx8CGoTU/видео.html
Next is Jascha Heifetz. ruclips.net/video/DR6CGXnelul/видео.html
Then, Itzhak Perlman. youtu.be/BnsPny:Ldrw
If these don’t go through, just type in search you tube Itzhak Perlman Introduction & Rondo Cappriccioso
Ty
YW ;-)
@fernando1821a Nice to meet you! Your English is perfect!
I'm a beginner and am kind of learning the violin on my own. My hand hurts a lot when I let my pinky tilt the bow. Do I require more practice? btw, thanks a lot for the video, it is very helpful :)
It sounds like you are playing with too much tension. That is one of the HARDEST things to learn: to relax while playing this difficult instrument. Try playing VERY quietly....it is easier to relax when you are not trying to play loud. Also, you do not have to tilt the bow....if it hurts, simply do not tilt it.
You are wonderful and I am the beneficiary of all your videos but I have a question
When I play the violin, my back hurts me
Is there any advice to avoid pain / thanks
Ekram from Egypt
Hi Ekram! Where does your back hurt? If it's upper back, it could be your set-up (chin rest and shoulder rest). If it's lower back, it could be something else. Do you stand or sit to practice?
My MAIN advice is 3 things:
1) Make sure you have a good set-up that allows you to play and hold your violin naturally and effortlessly
2) ALWAYS be on the look-out for tension. Tension causes pain and pain usually indicates tension.
3) MOVE! Do not stand or sit like a statue when you play. MOVE AROUND like a tree swaying in a breeze. Whenever I have to stand and film in front of my camera, I try to stand very still, and it forces me to STOP my natural movement......and I ALWAYS get pain after filming. (that's when I learned the importance of free movement....because I never had pain before!)
Thank you very much for your advise @@RedDesertViolin
thankyou
You just need rosin. You will need to order some on the internet, or go to a violin shop and get some. I prefer dark amber or black/green rosin. When bows are brand new, the horse hair doesn't have any rosin on it, and without rosin, we can't play a single note! Good luck on your violin!
Violin angel
Wow. You are even shorter than my 5'2"! I feel like I am stretching for 4/4 violin, I'm sure you struggle. YES, it's ok to let go of pinky rather than strain your bow hand. I would encourage you to get a 7/8 violin. They are getting more and more common. I have a student who has bought a couple, and they were NICE. If you need contact info, let me know. I am not sure about the 3/4 bow. I really don't know how to answer. I do NOT think it will hurt. I really don't.
Is this from your Suzuki 1 book lesson series?
Yes, this is a concept introduced in my Suzuki Book 1 class, and then emphasized in later books.
Thank you.. I just sent you an email, regarding your lessons.
@@crazyforflowers7478 Did I reply? LOL....I hope so!
Thank you for this video. Just one question, why not place the toilet paper roll where the violin strings would actually be, instead of on your shoulder?
That's a really good question. The reason is....by placing the tp core on your shoulder like a bazooka, it creates a trajectory that trains students to bow STRAIGHT....by forcing the bow out front of us....that's actually the trajectory our bow must take in order to play straight on the G string. So, it seems totally wrong and off.....but if you carefully study the position your bow is in when playing perfectly straight on the G string, it's the same position the t.p. core forces you into when you hold it on your shoulder. (test it out....and tell me if you agree)
No, it doesn't mean it's wrong! There are numerous ways to hold the bow...there's the Franco Belgian, the Russian, and little variations within those 2 main bow holds. You could ask your teacher what bow hold he/she is teaching you, just for your own information.
thank i love u
Waoooo perfect!!!!
Now I fully understand... I thought my bow hold was off. Thank you very much.
Sure! Good luck!
I have to hold my ballet position to make correct bow movements. Strange enough!
Ok, true confessions. I looked up Jan and Dean.....and I didn't think I made any reference to surf music. Please enlighten me! :-) And YES, I know their songs, I just didn't know their names!!!! Sue me! :-)
Listen to Surf City People use the 2 something for every something alot to copy the phrase . You might want to check out Jan & Dean and the Bel Aire Pops Symphony in 12 hit Movements Jan was the first R & R Artist to put his hits to a symphony Liberty had a shit fit and the album got no promotion , Jan wanted to show kids that R&R wasnt that far removed from Classical w Hal Blaine drums
Tommy Tedesco electric guitar.
I must disagree with the fingertip remaining on the leather, as zukerman lifts his slightly at the frog. As does Perlman.
Yes, I'm aware of that. I tried doing that for awhile, because I thought it looked really cool. It didn't really DO anything....helpful or otherwise.....so I don't teach my students to do that. But yes, to each her own, and you are welcome to disagree! ;-)
Why is Hillary Clinton teaching me how to play the violin...