Lesson 1: Extending Range – Higher Positions and Shifts
Duration of Days: 180
Lesson Objective
Students will play in first, second, and early third positions with accurate intonation and smooth shifts.
How do I adjust finger spacing for higher positions?
How can I maintain tone quality while shifting?
How do shifts support expressive playing?
1st, 2nd, 3rd position
Shift / finger extension
Intonation
Intervallic leaps
Performing: Demonstrate pitch accuracy in extended positions
Creating: Explore new melodic possibilities
Responding: Self-assess intonation and smoothness
Students extend range to include higher positions, focusing on smooth shifts and consistent tone. This prepares them for more expressive repertoire.
Stepwise shift exercises
Visual markers or finger tape
Advanced students: play short passages combining shifts and dynamics
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Teacher observation of shifts and intonation
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Individual performance exercises
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Peer feedback