Double Stops from Beginning to Bach

Double stops are one of the most difficult techniques to master on string instruments. This poster presentation will present the benefits and challenges that students encounter when playing double stops. I will give examples of a variety of useful practice techniques. In addition, I will present a sequential progression of valuable technique books and student pieces that contain double stops. I will provide a handout of these resources in sequential order. The sequential study of technique and repertoire can successfully lead a student violinist from the early stages of playing to a successful performance of solo Bach. Studying double stops develops aural skills, an awareness of intervals, and an accurate left hand framework. Double stops also improve right hand skills such as coordination, sensitivity, and an awareness of all seven string levels. Even passages that do not contain double stops can benefit from double stop study. The left-hand framework developed from double-stop practice increases fluidity in passages with string crossings. Many of the benefits that come from studying double stops are at first challenges. For example, one of the most common challenges is excess tension in the left hand as a result of placing multiple fingers down on multiple strings. I will present a variety of techniques to encourage relaxation in technical studies and repertoire. Accurate intonation is the most difficult challenge of playing double stops. I will present a variety of practice and teaching techniques to help students diagnose intonation problems on their own