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.
I have been playing the violin for about 4 years now. I was wondering do you have any tips on doing vibrato?
Answer Hi Alycia,
Doing vibrato exercises can improve your vibrato during performances. One exercise I like is to take a plastic egg, fill it with raw rice, close it and shake it back and forth in the left hand. With your right hand, grasp your left forearm just below the wrist, so that the left hand can move easily but your left forearm can't. Emphasize the backward motion of your left hand, and be sure to loosen up. Tightness kills vibrato; try to avoid it. Always remember that vibrato is an oscillation of the pitch below and at the intended note's pitch, NEVER above the pitch. That is why the motion (the main thrust) of the wrist should be primarily backward.
Whatever you do with vibrato, be sure your left hand is moving, with your wrist as a pivot joint. Don't bend your wrist in and out while keeping your finger stationary--this is a common mistake I've seen. Keeping your right hand on your forearm can help prevent this.
One other suggestion is to check the speed and width of your vibrato. I've found that more often than not, violinists having trouble with vibrato are moving their wrists too quickly and with oscillations that are too narrow. Watch video clips of accomplished violinists to get an idea of what speed and width to aim for.
Hope this helps, good luck with all your musical endeavors.
Sincerely, David
