Chapter VI

THE PRINCIPAL DIFFICULTY DOES NOT CONSIST IN THE READING OF MUSIC, BUT
IN THE WEAKNESS OF THE FINGERS.

In the opinion of many, the chief difficulty to be overcome in studying music consists in learning to _read it_. But this is by no means the case. The reading of music is learned in the same manner as a child learns to read letters. The first difficulties having been mastered, the task is easy; as with a printed book, so with music.

Consequently the paramount difficulty is not in the _notes_, but in the weakness and _awkwardness of the fingers_ and wrists. From this, again, it may be plainly seen how necessary it is to train the _fingers_ before commencing the work of the _head_. In short, what is wanted is a regular gymnastic training for the muscles of the fingers, the joints, and the wrists; and it will be found that the following exercises, being as desirable as they are applicable for every age, will strengthen and render them flexible in a most surprising manner, will materially shorten the time of study, and save much labour; nevertheless, on that account _the ordinary finger-practice, scales, and studies should of course_ NOT _be omitted_.

Suppose a boy from 10 to 14 years old, who is strong and healthy by means of gymnastics and other exercises, set to learn the piano or violin. His body is strong with gymnastic exercises, but his wrists and fingers are weak and awkward. How is he, with the method now in use, to succeed in playing an instrument well, without very long and wearying work? No wonder that the painful exertion almost makes him despair, and that finally he gives up the thing altogether. But if, on the contrary, his fingers and joints have been gymnastically trained and exercised beforehand, he will get on easily and quickly, and continue his studies with pleasure.

Many presidents and teachers of the most celebrated gymnastic institutions have, therefore, come to the determination to introduce into their establishments these exercises in addition to the other branches of gymnastic training. Their practical utility for all those who work with their fingers, for anatomists, surgeons, sculptors, watchmakers, and many others, is as evident as their salutary effect;—from a medical point of view, in curvature and paralysis of the hand and forearm, in weakness of the muscles and nerves, writers’ cramp, and similar complaints,—is undeniable.