With One Hand Behind Your Back!
Take it one step at a time. I know you are dying to use the bow but first we have to make sure that your motion is going to create the most beautiful and controllable vibrato possible. Once we add pitch, speed, and the bow you may find that you need to come back to this step and reinforce the proper motion. It takes most students pick up vibrato in 6-8 weeks of practicing. If you have not yet reviewed the first video in this series please put the cello down and find a wall.
From a seated position, create the same motion you were previously practicing on the wall on the neck of the cello. Use your second finger on the D-string as your starting position. The thumb just lightly brushes the back of the neck. Do not press or pinch. Do not stick the thumb out away from the neck. Do not use the bow. Just trace the motion on the neck traveling 4 to 5 inches with no pressure and no sound.
Before using the bow, practice this motion for 2 to 3 minutes a day with special attention to the following checklist:
- Elbow stays put — don’t let the elbow move up or down as the rotation occurs
- Rotation is centered — rock back towards your ear as much as you rock forward below your nose
- Straight EWP — keep a straight line from the tip of your elbow to the pinkie knuckle (Elbow – Wrist – Pinkie)
- Use the back not the wrist — your wrist should not twist or rotate, it acts only as an extension of the forearm. Originate the motion using back muscles (lats).
Pro Tip
Practice in front of a mirror so you can see your left hand in the mirror without having to look down and ruin your posture. Check that your finger remains arched and not collapsed. Try to keep the thumb relaxed but brushing the back of the neck.
The younger the learner the more time I like to spend on the first three lessons in this series. I know that the motion seems elementary at this stage but once we add pitch, speed, and the bow you will be grateful to have the motion thoroughly ingrained. When you are ready go to the next lesson where we add the bow!
HAPPY PRACTICING CELLISTS!