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Position Shift

Category: technique


Clean position shifts require release timing, relaxed hand movement, and precise arrival.

Shifts are often indicated with fingerings and position markings in classical scores.

When practicing shifts, focus on minimizing tension and unwanted string noise between positions.

Effective habits include:

  • preparing the target finger shape before moving
  • using guide fingers where possible
  • coordinating right-hand timing so the shift feels musically seamless

Controlled shifting improves legato playing, intonation confidence, and phrase continuity across the fingerboard.