How do can I reach the 4th finger high enough without moving the other fingers?
Karen Vancouver asked: I began the lesson “In the pink” (Module 2.1) a few weeks ago. When I try to reach the 4th finger, my left hand gradually moves up. As a result, the 1st, 2nd and 3rd fingers are out of position (sharp). Also, I have trouble curling that finger to use the tip on the string.
- It takes a while for the pinky to be flexible enough to stretch to the right spot.
- First, make sure you have a secure hold. Make sure your wrist is rotated in towards the fiddle.
- Isolate the 4th finger
- Start by playing E0-1-2-3. Play just the 4th finger (E4) with a B drone. Lift the other fingers.
- Try a simple pedal pattern: E4-0.
- Practice lifting it on and off. Do this with and without playing.
- You may need to stay on this step for a week. Build strength and flexibility.
- Lift the first and second fingers and play E3-4.
- If possible, hold down the third finger. If not, then lift the third when you play the fourth.
- Eventually, try to play E0-1-2-3-4. If it’s too difficult, then return to practicing the 4th finger in isolation.
Further learning
This micro-lesson is an excerpt from an office hours webinar I gave on September 16, 2020. View the entire live-stream with indexed questions here.
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