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Member
Hey guys, what's up?
So as I promised, I made a video of me playing the first song of the Suzuki method called "Twinkle, twinkle, little star". As you can hear, I didn't lie a word when I said I am a Noob. My playing is so far horrible. But apparently that's normal from a beginner. I still have fun playing though, although that might not seem obvious from viewing the video.
The reason for me posting this is to give you a chance to correct me. What am I doing wrong? Am I holding the bow correctly? Do I move my arm right. Should I have my fingers or hand at the violin at a different position? Should I wear a dress? I am 100% open to critique en suggestions.
Please leave a reply if you can. Thanks!

Honorary advisor
Regulars

I actually think that it was a very creditable performance for a beginner. I am only a month or so into my violin experience so I can't really critique your posture or mannerisms. I can say though with certainty that a dress won't help one way or another, so that is totally your call.
Also,practice, practice, practice. And then practice a little more. That is the only way to get better.
On a side note, did I recognize some Video Copilot plug-ins (Sure Target) in your graphic intro?
Never mind maneuvers, just go straight at them.

Member

That was really nice!
Pay attention to the intonation (LOL I learn almost a year and still have troubles with it =))..
Your bow is tighten too much. Loose it a bit. Actually i was amazed how You play with such tighten bow without bouncing Good job!
Your right pointer finger's bothering me - try to make it more rounded and relaxed!
Also try to keep your left wrist straight - don't let it rest on violin's neck. Play infront of the mirror from time to time - it will help. =)
As for me, your posture is good, but hold your left elbow more under the violin..
Keep on that GREAT JOB! I'm impressed!

Member
Thanks for your response!
Intonation, yeah it's hard. Not the hearing luckily, but the placing of fingers.
With left wrist straight, you mean straight up? I didn't know this so I'm really happy with the tip.
I will loosen my bow for the next video
Mind if I quote your tips on my website, so that other people seeing the vid know what I should change/adapt/better on what I do?

Noob, I think you're doing just fine for a beginner.
True, your bow is much too tight and as for bow bouncing, usually bow bouncing (to my experience) begins on the down-bow stroke, anywhere from 1/3 to 2/3rds of the way up the bowstick when changing direction of the bow stroke. You are playing about 3/4's of the way up the stick using very short strokes, maybe 3" max. You shouldn't experience bow bouncing when played that close to the head of the bow. Bow bouncing can be controlled by the amount of pressure applied with the right hand, using a bit more pressure the closer you get to the "Frog" then relaxing again before you actually get there.
It's very hard to explain what I mean.
Your notes are right on pitch and your left arm/elbow looks to be about a 90 degree angle in relation to the instrument. Your left wrist appears to not be straight, therefore you are supporting the weight of the violin with the heel of your left hand.
To experiment with what i'm talking about, try playing the same song (or any song or notes) using the full length of the bow, being a little more aggresive.
Great job on your video intro. Keep practicing, you'll get it.

Member
Hey guys, (and girl ofc), thanks for the tips. I'll start working on that and hope to show you some improvement in the next song, which is 'song of the wind' if i'm correct.
I have to re-learn the song though, because I don't have a teacher, I made the mistake of playing the E on this song with the 4th finger. I didn't figure out that the numbers above the notes mean which finger to use. I started practicing this song 3 days ago, but tonight I hope to do some practice. If I can find some time with running between home work and hospital
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