Mastering Big Shifts with String Crossing | Pro Tips and Examples

This in-depth violin tutorial delves into the art of precise shifting during string crossings. Whether you're tackling an intimidating cadenza or virtuosic concerto passage, these practice tips will take your performance to the next level. With practical examples from Sibelius and Prokofiev, I walk you through practice strategies that include creating reference points, pivoting, listening, and anticipating. Tune in now to enhance your skills and confidence.
TIMESTAMPS
0:00 - Intro
0:23 - Reference Point
0:50 - Ex: Sibelius Concerto Cadenza
4:04 - Middle Harmonics
5:09 - Finger Before Bow
6:26 - Ex: Prokofiev Violin Concerto No 2, MVT 2
7:03 - Practicing Prokofiev with 'Finger Before Bow' method
8:04 - The 'In-Between'
9:20 - How to Make Large Shifts Feel Smaller
11:48 - Pivoting with Thumb
13:20 - Ex: Saint-Saens Intro & Rondo Capriccioso
14:27 - Practicing Prokofiev with Pivoting
15:33 - BONUS & Closing
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Inna Langerman
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Some links found in my video's description are affiliate links. This means that if you click and decide to make a purchase, I might make a small commission; however, it's at no extra cost to you, and it's another way you can help support me and my channel! I only ever recommend tools that I personally trust, use, and tested myself.

[@AprilClaytonflute]

Great ideas, very well explained!

[@jamesnotsmith1465]

The tips in this video explain what I should be working on to resolve my instructor's observation that my shifts are fast and done with a jerking motion. Thank you.

[@Violinna]

You're very welcome!

[@immigrationbureau]

GREAT TIPS!!!!

[@mokikki570]

Another great video, Inna. What I like specially in your videos is that they always give immediately applicable tips for practice, with detailed explanation of the reasons they work. I was wondering why you did not mention visual cues as a tip for shifting. Is this something you use in your playing or not? I always try to remember where in the fingerboard my finger is supposed to land. I am not sure if it is very reliable, but I thought it should help. What are your views on this? Thank you again for your good work.

[@Violinna]

Ah you bring a very important point! Visual cues can be helpful actually and it didn't cross my mind to talk about it. Although to be honest, they haven't been very reliable for me (personally). They can help maybe in combination with the kinesthetic sense, which I think is far more powerful here. Although somehow just looking at the fingerboard helps - maybe there is a "subconscious" visual cue somewhere...if such a thing exists!