Don't always practice your violin at full volume. In other words you don't always have to play as loud as you can! There are two reasons for this.
First, playing loudly can create more tension in your bow hand. Sometimes when you are performing that tension is good, but if you are practicing something difficult or new the less tension the better!
Second, it is often easier to hear intonation (whether or not something is in tune) at half or 3/4 volume. There is less possibility of "wolf" tones and distortion.
(My Mom might have added a third reason . . . something about a vacation for her ears.)
And speaking about vacations for the ears, have you ever seen a practice mute? If you want to practice playing loudly, but you don't want to disturb other folks, a practice mute might be just the thing! Place it over the bridge and play away! You'll be amazed at how quiet it is! |
