Watching the fingers

In addition to the 'read-close-play-pause' exercise it is interesting to watch the fingers instead of 'close eyes'.

It is interesting to read and imagine the music. Then watch the body struggle to find the notes. It is interesting that the tension in the fingers is so visibly notiable. Also, it is stricking how far the hand needs to move in order to handle evening shifting a single position??! In my minds eye I always thought the distance was much less>!?!!?

Is it possible that simply watching the position of the fingers helps with the intonation?! Theoretically that seems impossible but practically it helps a lot?!?

Either way, playing whilst *not* looking at the music makes a world of difference for engaging the mind.

Visually watching the fingers form the double stop obviously helps co-ordinate the arm, hand and bow.

Also, it's surprising to watch how little actual movement in the fingers is required. It's surprising how much action is added unnecessarily. It's strange to watch the fingers be careful.