vibrato!

Joshua's violin teacher has been having him do some exercises in preparation for vibrato since about the beginning of the year, and in the last few weeks she's been having him actually apply the technique to some of his simpler pieces.  I'm very pleased to report that there are some nice sounds coming from his violin!

The main thing here is that he is willing to do it.  I have seen several of his teacher's students dig in their heels at vibrato and basically fail to make much progress in this area.  I think it's because it is a new skill that doesn't feel natural and to be honest, doesn't sound very good up front.  In fact, after Joshua's first go his teacher made a comment, something about it sounding like a UFO landing down to earth,  but don't worry.  If you knew his teacher you'd know she could get away with saying that.

I think Joshua's at somewhat of a sweet spot, where he's young enough that self-consciousness doesn't get in the way and bless his heart, he is willing and eager.  During his practice I am basically acting like it's just the most natural thing, like why wouldn't he practice his vibrato?  It's just the next natural step in his progression.  So far so good, I really never want to be a pushy stage mom, that's not why we're doing this.  But at the same time I don't want him to feel like this is optional or that he only has to develop his technique half-way.

I have found it to be a delicate dance between parent and child with these things.  Joshua and I are both learning so much along the way not only about music but also about our relationship and such.  Valuable stuff to be sure.  It brings to mind what Jake said so wisely during a recent (unrelated) conversation; how they (our kids) feel about doing things is not to be discounted.

Anyway, I just wanted to record this here on the blog.  It will help for my own point of reference to know about when Daniel* (and any future Sorensen violinists) may be ready for this.  It may seem a small thing, but it is significant to me.  It marks real progress and maturity in Joshua and I just wanted to share in case anyone else wanted to be proud of him too!

*  I'm excited for Daniel since lefties have a natural advantage in developing their vibrato (it's done with their dominant hand and all).