The pinkie is an often underappreciated component of a solid cello bow hold, and many players struggle with developing pinkie strength as a result. Luckily, ArtistWorks cello master Mike Block is here to send your pinkie to boot camp with two valuable bow exercises.

According to Mike, these exercises are simple enough that they can be done while performing other tasks yet effective enough to yield amazing results. “You can do [these exercises] while you’re watching TV, watching Netflix or checking out YouTube videos of Darol Anger,” Mike jokes. “I may or may not have done all three of those things before.”

Check out Mike’s full lesson on building pinkie strength below.

Interested in learning from a master musician like Mike Block? Check out these free sample cello lessons and see what all of the hype is about. Then, when you’re ready, come check out our full online music lessons and join the ArtistWorks family.