If you walk into my practice room on most days, chances are you’ll hear something simple: scales.
Yes, scales—the very exercises most of us started with as young violin students. And after years of concerts, competitions, and conservatory training, I still begin nearly every practice session with them.
Why?
Because scales are the foundation of everything we do as violinists. They’re not just warm-ups; they’re a mirror. They reflect our intonation, bow control, tone, and even our state of mind. And just like a dancer stretches or an athlete runs drills, a musician needs to stay connected to the fundamentals.
When I practice scales, I focus deeply on:
- Intonation: Even the slightest shift in pitch becomes obvious in a slow scale. It keeps my ears honest.
- Bow technique: Scales give me space to explore sound production—am I using the weight of my arm? Is my contact point clean?
- Shifting and finger placement: Practicing in multiple positions helps keep my left hand agile and accurate.
- Tone and phrasing: A scale can be more than a technical routine. It can sing. It should.
So to students (and even professionals) who think scales are boring or beneath them: think again. Scales are your grounding point, your technical sanctuary, and your daily chance to refine your relationship with your instrument.
Play them mindfully. Listen closely. And trust that every G major scale you play is one step closer to mastering that next big performance.
Scales become a personal workshop—one where technique and artistry constantly evolve.
What are your scales routine? Which composer scales do you prefer? Let me know in the comments
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