However, to attain this end, the exercises on the stick ought not be performed carelessly, but gymnastically, and STRICTLY according to the directions given above.
The same exercises are very useful for persons playing the violin, by promoting the proper bending of the forefinger of the left hand.
Generally speaking, the whole of the above exercises are equally fit for all persons playing the piano, the organ, the violin, the violoncello,
and other instruments; and they will find, after having accustomed themselves to perform them vigorously and gymnastically for a short time daily, that they then come to the instrument with a strength and individuality of finger which will exceed their utmost expectations.
CHAPTER XV.
BOARD FOR STRETCHING THE MUSCLES, ESPECIALLY THOSE OF THE THUMB AND THE LITTLE FINGER.
Take a board, about 22 inches long, four to five inches wide, and three quarters of an inch thick, and mark out on it four or five grooves, about half an inch deep. To fix this board on the table, have a little ledge glued on to one of its sides, as in Fig. 36 and 37.
Place the outstretched hand on the board; stretch the thumb and the little finger as far as possible away from one another, into one of the grooves, place the other fingers into one of the other grooves, and set them in motion, while holding the thumb and little finger firmly in their places.
Fig. 36.Fig. 37.
CHAPTER XVI.
ON STRINGED INSTRUMENTS IN PARTICULAR. THE WRIST OF THE RIGHT HAND.
The following mechanical gymnastic exercises refer to the wrist of the right hand, and are intended for players on stringed instruments. Their chief purpose is to render the wrist of the right hand and the forearm strong and flexible. This all students find very difficult; it will soon be evident for what reason.