Part 3b Left Hand:  Hand to instrument
Violin & Viola Cello Bass
1)  Draw an "X" on the part of the thumb that should touch the instrument and on the palm where it touches the other side of the neck
2)  Review 5 Steps (Part 2b)
3) Students place their left palm facing them (away from instrument)
4)  Place X spot on the left side of neck, with palm still open
5)  Help student place each finger on each of the tapes one at a time from the first to the third finger.  Do not use the fourth finger yet
6)  Make sure that the first finger is curved enough to make a "box"
1)  Review 4 steps (Part 2b)
2)  Extend left arm out behind the neck ("Check for Rain")
3)  Make Circle with Fingers (review of Hand Shape)
4)  Place a sticker on the back of the neck between the 1st & 3rd finger tapes to help them find the place to put the thumb
5)  Bend elbow and place thumb on neck
1)  Review 4 steps (Part 2b)
2)  Extend left arm out behind the neck ("Check for Rain")
3)  Make Circle with Fingers (review of Hand Shape)
4) Place a sticker on the back of the neck between the 1st & 4th finger tapes to help them find the place to put the thumb 
5)  Bend elbow and place thumb on neck

String Pedagogy for High School Mentors
©2002 - Michael C. Watson