Taught by renowned violist
Dimitri Murrath
Join renowned violist Dimitri Murrath in his comprehensive course on "Left Hand Principles," where he explores the anatomical and functional aspects of effective left-hand technique. The course covers vertical and horizontal motions, including finger dropping, lifting, and various shifting techniques, with a focus on ergonomic alignment and tension release. Murrath provides practical insights and exercises to enhance precision, fluidity, and efficiency in your left-hand movements, ultimately improving your overall viola playing.
Anatomy and Functionality
In the first part of Dimitri Murrath's "Left Hand Principles" course, explore the anatomy and functionality of the lower arm, hand, and fingers. Murrath explains the importance of proper hand rotation and ergonomic alignment of the arm and joints, ensuring a healthy and efficient left-hand technique. This section also covers the role of finger weight on the strings and optimal thumb positioning, laying a strong foundation for effective left-hand movement.
Vertical Movement
Dive into the mechanics of vertical motion in the second part of the course, where Murrath focuses on the dropping and lifting of individual fingers. You will learn about the origin of these motions, the benefits of mental practice, and techniques for actively lifting the fingers to release tension. Murrath also discusses the challenges of playing in different positions, particularly first position, and offers strategies to maintain precision and fluidity across the fingerboard.
Horizontal Movement: Shifting
n this section, Dimitri Murrath covers the intricacies of horizontal movement, with a focus on shifting techniques. He explains the differences between long-distance, mid-distance, and short-distance shifts, as well as shifting to positions above the 4th. The concept of guide finger shifting is also introduced, helping you to execute smooth and accurate transitions between positions.
Conclusion: Left Hand Principles
Conclude your study of left-hand principles with a comprehensive overview of the key concepts covered in the course. Murrath revisits the importance of thumb positioning, left-hand frame, and the drop-and-lift technique, along with horizontal movement and the efficiency of these motions. The final section emphasizes the role of weight into the string and how to integrate all these principles for a balanced, efficient, and expressive left-hand technique.
Click here to download the course workbook PDF and see the full syllabus →Click below to access hundreds of exclusive cello courses, available only on tonebase.
Unlock Course →Belgian American violist Dimitri Murrath is a recipient of the 2014 Avery Fisher Career Grant and first prize at the Primrose International Viola Competition.
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