Lesson 1: Advanced Instrument Setup & Left-Hand Technique
Duration of Days: 180
Lesson Objective
Students will demonstrate refined instrument setup and hand positioning while playing in 1st–3rd positions, maintaining intonation and technical control.
How does consistent setup and hand shape affect tone and endurance?
What strategies help me play higher positions accurately?
How can finger flexibility improve speed and intonation?
1st, 2nd, 3rd position
Shift / hand flexibility
Finger extension
Intonation
Endpin adjustment
Performing: Demonstrate technical accuracy in higher positions
Responding: Monitor intonation and hand position
Connecting: Relate setup to tone quality and endurance
Students refine left-hand technique, incorporating more frequent shifts and wider finger stretches. Focus is on accuracy, smooth transitions, and technical independence.
Stepwise shift exercises
Finger tape or markers for reference
Mirrors or video for self-assessment
Advanced students: practice extended melodic passages across positions
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Teacher observation of shifts, hand position, and intonation
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Individual performance of exercises
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Peer or self-assessment