Fingerboard map
The violin seen from the front, scroll at the top. Big dots are natural notes; small ones are sharps and flats. Finger spacing is approximate: always check by ear or with a tuner.
Notes on each string
| String | 0 (open) | 1 | low 2 | high 2 | 3 | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G | G3 | A3 | B♭3 | B3 | C4 | D4 |
| D | D4 | E4 | F4 | F♯4 | G4 | A4 |
| A | A4 | B4 | C5 | C♯5 | D5 | E5 |
| E | E5 | F♯5 | G5 | G♯5 | A5 | B5 |
Finger patterns
What changes from one scale to another is mostly where finger 2 goes:
- High 2 (next to 3): the A major and D major pattern. On the A string it gives C♯; on the D string, F♯.
- Low 2 (next to 1): the C major and G major pattern on the A string (C natural) and the E string (G natural).
- 4: plays the same note as the next open string. Use it to avoid string crossings or for a softer sound.
Each string's notes on the staff
Violin music is written in treble clef. These are the notes on each string in first position with a high 2nd finger, the first pattern most players learn:
Practise violin notes in the app
The app shows the fingering for every note as you play and checks you through the microphone. Free, no sign-up.
Open the app →Frequently asked questions
Where do the finger tapes go on a violin?
Beginners usually use three tapes: finger 1, high finger 2 (C♯ on the A string) and finger 3. They are only a guide: your ear and a tuner are still the reference.
What is the lowest note on the violin?
G3, the open G string, the thickest one.
Why does finger 4 play the same note as the next string?
Violin strings are tuned in fifths, and finger 4 in first position sits a fifth above the open string. So D with the 4th finger on the G string sounds the same as open D.
How do I know if I'm in tune?
In the Dedilhado Vivo app the microphone shows whether each note is sharp, flat or right on as you play.