jan 1, 1654 - Playford John

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AN INTRODUCTION TO THE SKILL OF MUSICK.
"FIrft, The Violin is ufually plaid above-hand, the Neck thereof being held by the left hand; the lower part thereof is rested on the left breaft, a little below the shoulder:

The Bow is held in the right hand, between the ends of the Thumb and the three firft Fingers, the Thumb being staid upon the Hair at the Nut, and the three Fingers resting upon the Wood: Your Bow being thus fixed, you are firft to draw an even stroke over each stiring severally , making each String yield a clear and distinct sound.
Secondly , for the posture of your left hand , place your Thumb on the back of the Neck, oppofite to your forefinger , so will your fingers have the more liberty to move up and down in the several Stops."
ed 1671, p.106

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