Learning violin vibrato is a delicate process that involves patience and consistent attention. If one rushes the process the usual results are a less-than-beautiful product Most people who rush ahead don’t end up with the with the vibrato that they hear from violinists they admire. Lack of muscle control results and there is only one fast tight speed employed. I lovingly call these “sheep-tones” (meh-eh-eh-eh-eh-eh).
That is why, (taking cues from Josesph Kaminsky’s “Learning From the Ground Up” DVD, 2005), I tend to start the student with a metronome and pretend violin hold using a wrist or hand vibrato. Just using a knocking on the door motion to a steady beat can prep the muscles to move consistently. Slowly increase the speed over many days (remember to be daily!). If the movement is jerky than the speed is too fast. Use an egg timer or phone app set to 2 or 3 min intervals. For best results do this twice daily over two weeks. If there is inconsistency it will spread over months and will get discouraging. As with all practice consistency trumps frustration.
The vibrato is then put on the instrument. We begin using the left hand in third position on the A (then D and G but wait on the E because many students cock their wrist to the right and thus out of shape and angle). Using just the second finger to start (the balance of the hand) on the A which is the note E in third position rock the in tune note to flatten or lower it then back to in tune. Use a regular rhythm Mis-sis-sip-pi Mis-sis-sip-pi on one bow using four bow strokes. Third finger may also be used at the beginning. Do the same on the D and then on the G.
Add first finger after second and third are improving. Later add the fourth finger.
This old video from ViolinMasterclass.com is also helpful.
