ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the left-hand concepts that apply to both instruments. These concepts include four basic diatonic finger patterns, fingerboard geography, the positions and guidelines for choosing basic fingerings for the beginning violin or viola player. The chapter also focuses on choosing fingerings for beginning and intermediate level players. The musical distance between each finger on the violin or viola is generally a half step or whole step depending on the spacing of the fingers. The fingerboard can be divided into half steps, with each half step representing a new position. The guidelines for choosing logical fingerings are the same for all string instruments and include maximize notes in a single position, use near shifts, use landmark positions, avoid awkward string crossings, avoid open strings, and tempo and style affect fingering choice. A violinist or violist may choose to use landmark positions when beginning a passage.
