Hand Frame

In this article you’ll learn what a hand frame is, the difference between hand frame and finger pattern, and the optimal hand frame for violinists.

Hand frame refers to the general shape and position of the left hand. This includes the position of the wrist and thumb, the position and placement of the fingers, and the finger pattern.

Finger pattern refers to the spacing or the distance between the fingers.

The finger pattern changes depending on the key, and the hand frame changes depending on the position.

Ideal Hand Frame

The wrist should be in a relaxed, neutral position, in line with the forearm. It should neither stick out nor collapse in at any time, but especially while using the fourth finger.

The thumb should be in a relaxed, neutral position, neither straight nor bent. The thumb should be touch the instrument slightly on the inside corner of the finger, but its position can vary from person to person depending on hand size. Those with smaller hands may need to place the thumb further up the neck, and those with bigger hands may nee to place the thumb further back. When playing on the lower strings (D and G) and when using vibrato, players might also prefer to place the thumb farther under the instrument.

The fingers should be placed on the tip with the knuckle up, and should remain close to the string at all times.

When playing in the higher positions (5th and above), the hand frame does change.

The wrist rests on the side of the instrument, or slightly above it.

The thumb moves into the “crook” of the neck, and can travel up the side of the fingerboard if necessary.

The fingers are still placed on the tips, but the knuckles may straighten out.

Maintaining an ideal hand frame while playing helps the player stay relaxed and injury-free, helps with intonation, and helps determine the position.