When to shift violin

Here's why and when you have to shift positions as a violinist:

1. #1 When you HAVE to. There are many high notes you can't play in the first position.
2. #2 When it sounds better. ...
3. #3 When it's handier or easier to use a certain fingering.

1. Why do you shift on the violin?
2. How do you teach a violin to shift?
3. Can you shift with music playing?

Why do you shift on the violin?

Shifting is a violin technique that allows you to move your entire left hand smoothly to any place on the fingerboard up or down to change notes. In simple words, shifting is when you play a note in one position and then slide your fingers up or down the fingerboard to another position to play a different note.

How do you teach a violin to shift?

The process is beautifully simple, but deathly boring and incredibly long. Put your violin and bow up, and stand in front of a mirror. Practice the shift very slowly with a relaxed hand (let it, for the time being, be a shift on the A string with the first finger from the first position, B, to the third position, D).

Can you shift with music playing?

Yes you can, just make sure it's calming and relaxing. Music helps me relax and focus so I shift better with it. You are able to listen to music during shift.