FAQ · Instruments & artforms

How do Indian violinists hold the violin?

Updated

Carnatic violinists play the violin seated cross-legged on the floor, with the right foot pointing outward and the scroll resting on that ankle. The back of the instrument sits against the left collarbone or shoulder. Jameela Siddiqi of Darbar explains that the position lets the left hand move freely along the fingerboard while the violin stays steady for fast ornamentation.

Was this answer helpful?