AboutDavid Expertise I mainly aim to answer questions about playing techniques--intonation,
vibrato, bowing etc. I am somewhat familiar with Baroque and Classical music, though not as much with Romantic. I am unable to answer questions about advanced music theory, violin crafters/brands or the monetary value of a violin.
Experience I have played the violin about nine discontinuous years. Most of my work has been orchestral, with some soloing throughout. I was principal 2nd violinist of the Disney Honors Orchestra in 1998, a six-time All-State Orchestra violinist, a two-time assistant concertmaster and two-time concertmaster of my All-County Orchestra. I also have perfect pitch, which I believe can be learned (though I do not claim to know how to teach it).
Since starting medical school in 2004, I have had fewer chances to play, but I hope to someday resume on a regular basis.
Expert: David Date: 8/31/2005 Subject: shiting and memory
Question What is the best way to shift in order to be 100% accurate at fast
tempos 100% of the time. Also, how does one develope permanent
muscle memory (learning notes, and keeping them in your
fingers---always landing in the right place)
Answer Hi Alex,
Unfortunately, I don't have any fancy answer to this question. First of all, 100% intonation accuracy all the time has probably never been done, even by the great artists...my teacher told me a story of a violinist famous for his impeccable intonation (too bad I forgot his name), but when a splendid solo performance recording of his was played back at a very slow speed, it was found that along the way he was making many minor corrections.
That aside, I've found that practicing shifts at slow speed, repeatedly, helps to develop good muscle memory. I don't think I would call it "permanent" because after you reach a certain level of skill, if you go for weeks without practicing you will not have the same fine tuning of your hands when you return...however you can regain it by practicing some more.
Try shifting back and forth between two notes, again and again. Be able to visually recognize where your finger is, and where it is aiming for, but also eventually try doing the shift with your eyes closed so that you'll be able to do so only by sensing where your fingers are, instead of relying on visual cues. If you're shifting between two notes that don't involve the same finger, for instance a first position B on the A string (1st finger) to a third position G on the same string, 4th finger, you may want to shift between the B and the D with your 1st finger (playing both notes), then place your 4th finger down...gradually try it so that the D becomes less and less noticeable, until finally you are shifting cleanly B to G. Slowly work up to speed, and understand that this probably won't happen overnight. I don't know how experienced you are, but good shifting can take years to master unless you're some sort of prodigy...which, though it may sound great, carries with it the potential for horrific outcomes.
Try the repetition bit, I know tons of teachers say it all the time, but it really is a key to mastery. Not the ONLY key, but a key.
--David
