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STAGE ONE FINGER DEXTERITY

Fingers can develop speed and accuracy through practicing Schradieck’s School of Violin Technique. Left hand shape and finger action was addressed in Topic One. Throughout these exercises continue observing the relaxed shape of the left hand and checking the lightness of the fingertips on the string. Watch how the fingers fall. Are they falling with their own weight?

	Clip Title:	Extensions: Reaching Back and Reaching Forward
	Description:	Extending up with the 4th finger and back with the 1st finger, finding left hand balance with Schradieck
	Channel:	206
	Duration:	1'38"

While playing Schradieck or other finger exercises remember to:

• Balance the left hand efficiently around the 3rd and 4th fingers, extending back for the 1st and 2nd fingers
• Relax each finger after it has played
• Leave the finger down if returning to it within the same position
• Use whole bows with even bow speed, pressure, and dynamics

Practice Routine: Slowly practice 8 notes per bow, then practice rhythms with slurs using the Morse Code sequence [see Stage One Scales], and finally slur the whole measure in one bow. Observe that each finger relaxes after it has played; the bow continues at an even speed, producing a clear beautiful tone. Many students [at the Collége level] will be able to play the entire first exercise, one measure per bow without stopping, with the left hand feeling comfortable and without pain by the end of the first week.

	Clip Title:	Finger Dexterity: Schradieck #1
	Description:	Moving the fingers quickly and in tune
	Channel:	253
	Duration:	0'00"

When you are feeling comfortable with the materials up to this point, continue on with STAGE TWO. Remember to review Stage One often.

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