Expert: David - 2/6/2009

Question
I currentyl play the viola, but used to play the violin.  THe bowing technique is very similar to the violin I believe.  However, when I play my arms get sore and tired within the first minute of the music.  I'm not sure which muscles in my arm to use so I try using different parts.  What can I do so that I can comfortably play music for a long time.

Answer
Hi Taylor,
Fatigue in the arms has a number of different causes.  One possible and likely cause of tiredness in your left arm is that you are trying to support the viola with your arm, because you haven't yet become accustomed to the extra weight relative to the violin.  I strongly recommend that you practice holding the viola with just your chin and shoulder, without the aid of your left arm.  Your left arm/wrist/hand should be free to shift around and perform vibrato without needing to support the instrument, and if you depend on your arm for support then your playing will be hindered.
As for your right arm, your best bet is to relax it.  Not to the point that it is limp of course, but to the point that any unnecessary stiffness is eliminated.  Bowing is a complex activity involving many muscles, and unfortunately many violists and violinists stiffen their arms to play phrases that include tremolo or fast notes, and consequently their right arms tire much faster.  I think it's fair to say that when bowing, no muscle in your right arm should feel especially tensed up.
If you are experiencing cramping in your arms or fingers, try eating a banana, as the potassium in it will help with that.
It's also possible that you aren't that accustomed to playing right now because you haven't gotten to practice much.  While I think many people don't think of viola/violin playing as "athletic", it does involve many muscles working in concert and the more you can play regularly (without overdoing it), the better conditioned the involved muscles will be.
Hope this is of some help, best of luck in your musical endeavors.
Sincerely,
David