How To | Strings Magazine | For players of violin, viola, cello, bass & fiddle

violinist playing with proper violin finger position

How to Learn Violin Finger Positions for Beginners

When you start to play violin, it's key to get the positions down. Here's a guide on violin finger positions for beginners.

Leon Kirchner’s ‘Duo No. 2’ Shows the Composer’s Unfailing Vitality

Kirchner was 83 when he wrote the Duo No. 2 in 2002. He considered its completion proof that he still was capable of producing works of great vitality.

violinist practicing Martele bowing technique on violin

A Refresher on Bold Martelé Bowing Technique

Martelé bowing is remarkably useful as a teaching tool, specifically for bow-hand strength & balance, & for development of accurate direction in the bow arm.

woman playing violin with a shoulder rest

How to Find the Best Shoulder Rest for Your Violin

There is no magic shoulder rest that will make you a better player, but here's how to find the right violin shoulder rest and ensure it’s fitted correctly.

stage fright illustration of woman dangling from gigantic cello scroll

Tips on How Musicians Can Overcome Stage Fright

No matter if you've played two gigs or 2,000, stage fright can happen to any musician at any time. Here are some ways string players can overcome stage fright.

Cellists performing in an orchestra section

How Musicians Can Combat Comeback Performance Stress and Anxiety

As COVID-19 vaccinations continue, so do plans to get full orchestras and chamber ensembles back in halls before in-person audiences.

How to Blend into a Section in an Orchestra—or Project Over it as a Soloist

Playing live in an orchestral setting requires careful attention to the nuances of your fellow musicians and the conductor both as a section player and as a soloist.

Violinist Scott Tixier performs in a venue

Growth as a Musician Means Facing a Little Anxiety

Growing as a musician means stepping outside your comfort zone, which naturally bring along with it some anxiety. But it doesn't have to be scary.

Recovering onstage after a mistake, and how to prepare your pieces to help avoid it

How String Players Can Avoid or Recover From Onstage Mistakes

You never know what will happen during a live musical performance—that's part of what makes it exciting for the audience, but can make it scary for the performers.

Cellist giving outdoor performance in a field of wildflowers

Tips for Busking and Outdoor Gigs with Stringed Instruments

Playing outdoors can present some specific challenges for string players. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your outdoor gigs and avoid potential pitfalls.