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Reaching the low C
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Ripton
Vermont, Massachusetts or somewhere in between
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November 8, 2019 - 1:38 pm
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I'm finding it difficult to play on the C string. Tight muscles or just not playing/practicing enough. I do have something going on with my shoulder so not sure if that has something to do with it. Any good video to watch for proper arm, elbow and hand position? thanks

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Mouse
November 8, 2019 - 2:16 pm
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I couldn’t find a video but I did read that the C string on a viola tends to stretch when played and you have to use more pressure when playing the C string. 

I don’t know what issue you have, so couldn’t refine a search. 

One article said the put the bow in the C string. Draw it up to the tip. Check the wrist and elbow for proper positioning, which is really no help if we don’t know how it should be positioned for that C string. Then go to the frog anf check again. The elbow should go no higher of lower than it is in either position when doing the C string. Pretty much not very good info.

On the bright spot, apparently, the C string is not used much. But, I think they were talking in an orchestra because they said that, and followed up with notes on the viola C string are usually covered by a cello. 

I am going to get my viola down and check out that C.

I have a 15 1/2”. My 16” was a little hard in my arms so I traded it in. I love the 15 1/2”. Maybe scaling the size down to a 15 1/2” will help? 

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Mouse
November 8, 2019 - 3:06 pm
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Ok, I just did my viola. My C string requires my elbow to go about even with my shoulder. If you have shoulder issues, that could be the cause. When I switched to the 15 1/2” from the 16”, this became much easier and less shoulder joint strain. My measurements had me within the 16” viola size. I wasn’t on the borderline between 15 1/2”’and 16”. That 1/2” made a big difference in playability, but the viola sound I love is still there. But that is my viola, strings and setup.

Not sure what else I can contribute. That C string does require an elbow level with the shoulder pretty much. Maybe from someone else’s view, a little higher, but my perspective, about level.

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Ripton
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November 9, 2019 - 5:20 pm
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More so my left shoulder. Bowing arm  is fine. Thanks for the suggestions. 

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