A Natural Approach to Vibrato

The notion of natural this or natural that is a modern day phenomenon attributed to everything from food to hair products.

Violist Rozanna Weinberger

When referring to viola or violin vibrato, there is a vague notion of somehow playing with less tension. But I would prefer to attribute naturalness to the incorporation of motion studies that utilize the intrinsic functionality of the skeleton and muscles. How does this relate to vibrato, one may ask?

Motion Study for Left Hand Vibrato

1. Bend the elbow of the left hand and bring the hand around as if playing an imaginary viola or violin.
2. Begin moving the hand forward and backward from the wrist. Do this for a few seconds, then relax the left arm down to your side.
3. Elevate the arm again as in step 1.
4. Begin moving the forearm forward and backward from the elbow.
5. Allow the hand and wrist to relax while following step 4. Notice what happens — the wrist and hand will begin to move in response to the momentum created in the elbow and forearm, rather than being the source of the movement as in step 2. This cause-and-effect relationship is similar to the ripple effect a pebble creates when thrown into a pond.

Which method of causing the wrist and hand to move was easier and more comfortable? The answer to that question can also form the basis of a truly natural vibrato.

by Rozanna Weinberger