Hi guys, I was just wondering, is it ok if you don`t use vibrato in the 8th grade, or do you think it`s necessary? You see, I`ve been playing the violin for 3 years now, and I`m really good, but it`s kind of hard for me to do vibrato. Can anyone help me out? SInce my e-mail isn`t working at this time, just write another message with the Subject as: RE:Handling Vibrato. Thanks!
MAXINE

The examiners look for vibrato from grade 4/5 onwards. Grade 8 music often demands vibrato especially in music from List B. I`m sure that there is nothing more to any technique than practice, and consistent progress is your aim while practising.

As for the tips for handling vibrato, you will find a nice huge pile here: http://www.8notes.com/forum/forum_search.asp?keyword=vibrato


Jay

Yap. But in a way, actually the examiners dun really listen for vibrato. Yet it is absolutely `almost` necessary, as a means to do justice to the music.They go for the final product. But this final product will not be satisfactory unless u do some vibrato. Like what Jay had said, esp. songs in the B list. How far is it b4 u sit for yr grade 8? Pratice it everyday from now on, I`m sure u`ll get it. Consult yr teacher.

also... just because you have anice vibrato doesn`t mean you are a great violinist, i knew a girl who had an awesome relaxed vibrato, but she played out of tune...
just a thought...

I don`t like the "vibrato almost required" thing. I think of vibrato as an ornament, something to fancy up the music. You wouldn`t play scales with vibrato. If, say, you played something baroque for an exam and didn`t budge at all, and they mark you down for not vibrating, it`s kinda crazy.

Of caz vibrato has to be used discerningly...I really will not recommend vibrato for earlier works, unless at longer/ slower notes/passages.

I have trouble doing vibrato too and I`ve been playing for 3 or 4 years and I still can`t vibrato. I need help too!!!Can any one send pictures

I think it just takes longer for some people to develope a vibrato, but the more you practice it the faster it should catch on. It took me about three or four years to get comfortable with it. Also, I believe that it`s very hard to tell someone how to do vibrato without showing them, so it would be best if you could have a teacher or another violinist show you.

Also, I don`t think vibrato is absolutely necessary, but it can improve the musicality of your pieces significantly. However, if your intonation, expression ect. is really good I don`t think they should mark you down.

Good luck!

oops, I meant to say *I don`t think vibrato is absolutely necessary*