An Examination of Left-Hand Technique for Violinists with a Small Left Hand, and a Practical Guide for Developing Techniques

In this paper I present approaches to left-hand technique, perspectives and solutions for violinists with a small left hand, and provide effective practice methodologies to implement solutions. It is intended to help violinists evaluate and understand finger mechanisms. One of my main goals was to survey treaties on this subject, and fill in gaps in their approaches. The paper consists of three chapters. The first chapter provides an overview of treatises by selected notable violin pedagogues regarding left-hand posture and finger function. I also explore new perspectives by current pedagogues who expand upon earlier treatises. The second chapter provides an analytical perspective on the fundamentals of violin playing. I examine the functions of the left-hand skeletal and muscular structure, and explore methods for managing tension and relaxation. The third chapter presents a series of exercises to improve finger independence and compatibility. Each exercise is accompanied with corresponding videos that demonstrate and explain the details of execution, and incorporate these techniques into selected etudes and standard repertoire.