https://main--sethmacleod.netlify.app/technique/Recent content in Technique Table of Contents on Seth MacLeodHugo -- gohugo.ioen-usSeth MacLeodMon, 09 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://main--sethmacleod.netlify.app/technique/building-blocks-of-shifting/Mon, 29 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000https://main--sethmacleod.netlify.app/technique/building-blocks-of-shifting/Mastering the mechanics of shifting ensures ease of movement and consistency of intonation. The technique varies for different kinds of shifts. Here we will examine the foundations of shifting: the four basic steps of shifting, the same-finger shift, the extension shift, and the contraction shift. Four Basic Steps of Shifting Play the old note Release finger pressure into harmonic position Slide finger along string in harmonic position until you reach the new note Play the new note Practice slowly enough that you can focus on following these steps exactly.https://main--sethmacleod.netlify.app/technique/the-bow-positions/Tue, 19 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000https://main--sethmacleod.netlify.app/technique/the-bow-positions/There are three bow positions: neutral, down-bow, and up-bow. You will change bow positions throughout most bow strokes, but there are some that rely on staying in one bow position. Neutral Position Neutral position is your basic bow hold. See The Bow Hold. Down-bow Position Feel that you are pulling the bow. You should feel this from your ring finger and pinky. Remain pronated but less so than up-bow position.https://main--sethmacleod.netlify.app/technique/introduction-to-string-levels/Mon, 18 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000https://main--sethmacleod.netlify.app/technique/introduction-to-string-levels/The positioning of your arm will vary for each string. Each string has its own string level that your arm aligns to as you play on that string. Your arm will be highest on the A string and lowest on the C string. Finding String Levels There is a simple exercise to find the best positioning for you: Hold the bow in your hand as you would for pizzicato. Bring your hand to the string where you will use the bow.https://main--sethmacleod.netlify.app/technique/the-bow-hold/Sun, 17 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000https://main--sethmacleod.netlify.app/technique/the-bow-hold/To find the natural spacing of your fingers in the right hand: Hold your right forearm parallel to the floor Relax your hand and let it dangle When holding the bow, bring your thumb and middle finger together. This positioning should be maintained as closely as possible during play. The thumb should be kept straight but not tense when holding the bow. Whether the thumb more curved or straight depends on the size of the object we are holding.