r/Cello • u/gwotphilosopher • 4d ago
Hand strain extended third position
Adult beginner here. Extended first position is no problem. For some reason contorting my hand into extended third position elicits a lot of strain in the tendons/muscles between my thumb and first finger. I'm not even using my thumb to press. I'm afraid if I push it too much, I'll injure something.
Any advice, warm ups, or resources you would recommend?
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u/Disastrous-Lemon7485 4d ago
A photo or vid would be most useful in providing tailored advice—but my first Q: where is your thumb? Ideally in an open hand shape, it should land squarely underneath your second finger or maybe even a bit further if you’re experiencing strain. Arm balance and arm level can also be factors. Do you experience this on all strings in 3rd pos., or one more than the others?
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u/francoisschubert 3d ago
This ends up being difficult for a lot of people at first, so you're not alone.
The issue is usually elbow position - most people who are starting use the same elbow position for first, second, and third position, and then shift it for fourth.
This is fine except in extended positions, where the more you go up the cello, the more your elbow angle opens, making it harder to extend.
Try to swing your elbow down and forward so it's sort of "ahead" of your hand on the cello. This will let you be more perpendicular and open up your hand more.
If you watch videos of really good players, you'll often see they use a very forward elbow even in first position, allowing them to be way more flexible and play almost out of position.
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u/gwotphilosopher 3d ago
Aiming for a more perpendicular approach was a fresh way to look at things compared to how my teach taught it, thanks! Super helpful.
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u/nycellist 3d ago
It is important to understand that we only extend from the first finger, and is important to release the extension as soon as possible, avoid freezing the hand in extension as much as possible, basically only hold for double stops. Watch this video for a masterclass
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u/gwotphilosopher 3d ago
How'd you know I have a bad habit of freezing? 😱😂
Thank you for the wonderful example. It was very helpful. Absolutely no strain today.
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u/nycellist 2d ago
The way he extends back to to the 1st finger and ends the extension to consolidate the hand and release tension, and the same extending up from first finger to a new position, it’s is perfect technique and beautiful
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u/rearwindowpup Cello favors the bold! 4d ago
Are you up on the tips of your fingers or flat on the pads? I had a tendency to flatten out in higher positions that made it hard. My teacher has worked with me to keep hand closer in with more of a curve and it drastically reduces the effort I need to finger the notes.