BALANCING THE VIOLIN AND VIOLA
Begin with your instrument in Playing Position – Puzzle Pieces Connected.
Take notice where’V’ is in the diagram.
When you are in playing position your left arm forms a large V shape.
This Left Arm V is always present when performing with proper playing position.
Get ready to lower your left hand and balance the instrument.
Keep the instrument balanced on your instrument shelf, with the chin rest and shoulder rest puzzle pieces connected. Now, slowly lower your left arm down to your knee.
Use the weight of your head and keep your muscles relaxed. At first, keep the instrument balanced for just a few seconds. Then, practice to lengthen your balance duration.
Knowing that you are balancing your instrument and that your hands are completely free to play, increases your confidence. Practice to balance your instrument like the pros!
Balancing the instrument successfully is the most important step to performing well!
