Balanced Playing

Balanced players are better players. Simple, but so true. A player that develops a comfortable stance and playing position will find it much easier to focus on all the other musical aspects of playing. Learning to hold your instrument will take time and concentrated effort. There are some practical elements of position that I spend a great deal of time on in lessons. Most of my students will recognize them quickly. 

• Open left wrist
• Bend right thumb
• Curve right pinky
• Hold down/hover left fingers over fingerboard
• Sit at the edge of the chair, when seated
• Keep feet flat on the floor 
• Feet should be about shoulder width apart and, when standing, the left foot can be pointed outward if it is more comfortable for the performer
• Bring left elbow under the instrument more to give fingers additional room to move and be curved
• Curve left fingers, instead of allowing them to straighten out or become stiff
• Relax neck, tilted slightly toward your instrument, while holding your instrument under your chin
• Use the most comfortable shoulder rest that will allow you to hold your instrument with your chin instead of your left hand
• Open and close your right elbow to keep your bow in the correct place
• Sit or stand up straight

Charles Jay Stein, in The Alexander Technique for Musicians wrote, "Whether standing or sitting, the violinist does not need to lock a single muscle in the body. Power and support do not come from a held position. They come from a balanced skeleton that is constantly re-balanced by muscles in flow. The skeleton supports the musculature instead of the muscles locking to support the skeleton."

Developing correct playing posture will help musicians prevent injury and allow them to move fluidly while making beautiful music. My best advice is to be patient and persistent as you work to make changes and become a delightfully balanced player.