Thoughts on Playing Both Violin and Guitar
Using the left hand is the basic difference between the two
A In answer to Maricar C. de Guia’s query as to whether it is inadvisable to simultaneously study violin and guitar, I know from personal experience that it is very much dependent on the string tension and action on the guitar. There is a basic difference in left-hand technique between the two instruments. On the violin, one needs to learn to minimize any squeezing or clamping action and feel a lightness in the left hand; on the guitar, chord playing necessitates a certain degree of squeezing in order to keep the strings down. This habit could transfer itself to the violin, where it is not needed. But playing both instruments is certainly possible as long as you are aware of this issue.
I recommend playing a guitar that has light-gauge strings, a low string action (as close to the fingerboard as possible), and, if possible, a neck that is narrow at the nut. These things will minimize the need for excess tension in the left hand.
Best of luck!
—Dr. Ronald Francois
Cape Girardeau, Missouri
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