Do you use finger patterns?
I didn't until I watched my colleague in 2012 teach these to her group of violin students. It was a "Eureka" moment for me because it became so clear to me that finger patterns are the missing link to so many parts of violin technique:
It is also worth mentioning that finger patterns are fun and beneficial for students of all ages and levels. You DO NOT need a violin to train these (bonus, you can practice in the car and while in line at the grocery store) and finger patterns are a fantastic activity for mixed levels of violinists. I even had the entire audience do these before a recital.
I have some free finger pattern charts for you:
1- With patterns printed on the page.
2- Without the patterns to use as a worksheet for students.
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You do not have to be a fan of Star Trek to appreciate the benefits of incorporating finger patterns into your teaching. In the video posted below and titled "Finger Patterns for Violinists & Fun Pop Culture Reference" you will learn four things:
