It is necessary to train the muscles to act quickly, accurately,
strongly, and without easy tiring if you are to be a super-musician. In
order to acquire the independent, individual movement of the fingers,
they have to go through the “awkward squad” stage, it is true; but with
the proper, thoughtful drilling, which these lessons, like an
understanding officer gives, they soon become familiar with the commands
and learn to obey orders.
Obedience is of absolute importance in learning AUTOMATIC FINGER
CONTROL. First obedience that you must give to the written word of the
lesson. And then obedience that you must demand of the muscles involved.
When you want your finger or whatever it may be to perform a certain
movement, do not accept anything short of perfection from it. Analyze
each movement that seems to give trouble. Trouble—understand—is half
removed.
If you demand perfect obedience from your fingers each and every time,
it will not take long for you to establish that very desirable
connection—or shall we say understanding—between the brain and the
fingers which will free you from the usual drudgery of fumbling for the
notes at the instrument, of only half comprehending what you are
playing, and of getting tired when you should still be fresh and
enjoying yourself.
Thus, the habit of correctness is established. If there be any good
habits; surely, this is one of the best that a Musician could acquire. I
commend it to you highly. It well repays your effort in gaining it.
Exercises 17, 18, 19, and 20.