Teaching Tone to String Players
When teaching a string class or a private student about tone, the first priority should be seeing that students understand what tone is. I usually demonstrate a good tone, then a poor tone. All students can hear the difference, but it may be difficult for them to put into words. Point out that a good tone occurs when there are even string vibrations, which are affected by the following factors:
1. Speed of the bow: If the bow is moving too fast or too slow, an even tone cannot be achieved. Have students demonstrate pulling their bow too fast, then too slow. Having them exaggerate the movements will make the lesson memorable and a lot of fun!
2. Weight of bow: If the bow has too little or too much weight, an even tone cannot be achieved. Again, have students exaggerate the two extremes, then find the middle ground.
3. Bow and Bridge must be parallel: Demonstrate to students an exaggerated bow stroke that is crooked to show how the tone is affected. I like using the “Bow Right: product. (see my review here: Bow Right Review)
4. The bow must stay in one lane. Demonstrate to students that even if the bow and bridge are parallel, if the bow is “skidding” across lanes (between the bridge and fingerboard), good tone cannot be achieved.
This is a lot of information for students at once, so after this lesson, have students focus on one thing at a time while playing familiar songs or scales. If you have any other suggestions, please feel free to comment! Thanks
Topics: Classroom Teachers, Private Teachers |