Bowing on Open Strings
This exercise strengthens your bowing arm and hand. Bow the strings from the frog to the tip to create a smooth, even sound.
Finger Placing Exercise
This exercise helps you learn how to place your fingers on the fingerboard and strengthen the muscles in your hands. Place your fingers on the fingerboard and press each note without your bow. Start with a slow tempo and see if you can get a clear sound from each note.
Simple Scales
The best way to develop your intonation and finger dexterity is to play scales. Start with major and minor scales and go up and down one octave. Start with a slow tempo and listen for a clear sound from each note. As you get more comfortable, increase the tempo.
String Crossing
This exercise helps you strengthen your bowing arm and hand and helps you play other songs and pieces. To practice string crossing, play an open string, then play another string. Start with crossing to adjacent strings first, and then try crossing non-adjacent strings.
Rhythm and Timekeeping Exercises
This exercise helps you play on time with your music. Use a metronome to keep the beat and start with quarter and half notes. Then try playing with eighth notes. Start with a slow tempo and work your way up to a faster tempo.