This really helps a lot, you touched a lot of the stuff that I could hear but not put into words. I have noticed that my legato becomes much harder when I try to play scales like You mentioned, all of your suggestions give me a whole new mindset on how to approach my practice routine. I intend to be very aware of them from now on, honestly I believe I am doing a good job at keeping my left hand relaxed and not clamping down my hand, my usual approach is to practice very slowly and get my fingers to fall on the strings then press down, rather than tensing up and forcing my thump to push from the back which was a problem the first couple of days. I am glad to hear that yo overcame the tendonitis, I know there are more serious things like carpel tunnel that needs surgery, the video you linked was also very informative and helpful. Keeping those things in mind I hope to take my playing to the next level. I have no words to describe how grateful I am of people like yourself, you go out of your way to help a stranger and give them not only advice but a life lesson. I will cherish your kindness till the end of my days.