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Vibrato
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Mouse
July 10, 2025 - 12:59 pm
Member Since: July 8, 2021
Forum Posts: 588
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On the sister site, Fiddlerman, there is a discussion about vibrato, an old topic brought to life. I couldn't find an old one on vibrato here to bring to life, so I am going to start one, on viola and cello vibrato, specifically. If you are a member, please join in and help get a discussion going. If you are not a member, join the forum and take part in this discussion, and, just a suggestion, introduce yourself in the member introduction section of the forum.

The Bumble Bee Flies

Learn Viola on Violaman and Fiddlerman's Fiddle Talk

Please ignore any typos. My typing ability on a real typewriter did not transfer to these device key pads.
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Mouse
July 10, 2025 - 1:09 pm
Member Since: July 8, 2021
Forum Posts: 588
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Personally, I do not like a lot of vibrato. I like to hear the clear beautiful ringing notes. 

I think that vibrato has its use, and its importance, but used too much and its effect is not there. As I mentioned on the Fiddlerman site, but not in these words, a vibrato used on high notes to represent a bird chirp would be lost if vibrato was used on most of the notes. It needs to be used purposely and not overdone.

I can do vibrato on my cello, but I like the sound of the notes. I use the vibrato, but not as much as most people. I actually use it more than I want because, unfortunately, once you start, it becomes habit. This makes it harder to not do vibrato, :). 

I have tried vibrato on my viola, but have not gotten there, or very well. Part of the problem is that I am having a hard t8me getting a proper set up, which I will not discuss in this vibrato topic.

I also have no desire to actually get into it, I am more focused on achieving a clear ringing tone, which I love. I actually love it too much. I can be playing and hit that beautiful ring, It cause me to to stop and take it in! Maybe when I can achieve that ring with consistency it won't cause me to stop and smell the roses.

What are your thoughts. Join in, not a member, join the forum. We would love to see your thoughts.

The Bumble Bee Flies

Learn Viola on Violaman and Fiddlerman's Fiddle Talk

Please ignore any typos. My typing ability on a real typewriter did not transfer to these device key pads.
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wtw
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July 12, 2025 - 8:44 am
Member Since: January 13, 2019
Forum Posts: 125
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As a listener I like vibrato, in good measure. Some music asks for it, other I like better without, or just a bit. It's all very subjective of course. And there's not just one type of vibrato possible on the same passage/piece - which makes a lot of different interpretations to choose from.

Being able to do it or not as a player, is a very different matter. You can like it and not manage it (--> hence work towards learning it), not like it and not play it (--> not interested, skill never learnt), like it and manage it (lucky you), not like it and manage it anyway (useful tool in case it's needed, but prefer to use it sporadically).

@Mouse I understand what you mean about clear notes. String instruments can be moving with very litlle when played right - even an open string. There's something about feeling the vibrations of the instrument too, it's not just hearing the sound itself (or maybe that's just me).

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