Lesson 1: Refining Instrument Setup & Left-Hand Technique
Duration of Days: 180
Lesson Objective
Students will demonstrate consistent instrument setup and refine left-hand positioning, including first and second positions, for accurate intonation and finger flexibility.
How can I maintain proper posture and hand alignment while playing longer phrases?
What adjustments help me play higher positions accurately?
How do finger placement and hand shape affect tone?
Left-hand frame
Finger spacing
Shift
Intonation
Endpin adjustment
Performing: Demonstrate refined technical control
Responding: Monitor accuracy of finger placement and intonation
Connecting: Relate posture and hand position to tone quality
Students review Grade 6 setup and posture while incorporating controlled shifts and first/second position notes. Focus is on developing independence and consistent tone.
Use finger tape for new positions
Stepwise shifting exercises
Visual modeling and mirrors
Advanced students: practice longer melodic passages across positions
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Teacher observation of posture and left-hand technique
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Individual performance checks with first and second position notes
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Student self-assessment of intonation