2016-07-13 15:21:56
My fingers keep slipping of the fingerboard especially so during fast passages, on the A string.
Deryn asked if I was okay with replaying a certain section / phrase to familiarise and optimise and whilst I don't mind repetition at all, focus is an issue I struggle with so all the repetition hardly counts as quality practise.
The thing with being a freelancer with personal projects - time management is a tricky juggling affair. Short condensed working hours for main clients followed by down time that usually focuses on house & family stuff. "Free" time allows me space to focus on our own projects that, although doesn't pay very well, is a neccessity and essential for sanity and a creative outlet. Then there's the cello. Minus all the other things that I've left out. Focusing purely on any aspect of cello-ing in the small 1-2 hours a day, if any practise time was allocated at all, happens not as often as I'd like it to.
The worst thing to happen when you cello without focus? Physical pain and a wasted practise session.
We discussed the Beethoven Cello Sonata, a previous piece that's been put in the "later" box for most parts. I mentioned that I didn't want to look at the second movement yet for fear of tainting it. We laughed at this as it seemed absurb that such a thought even came about, but, Deryn has done the same thing herself :P
She says it's ok to move on even if you've not mastered the previous movement. Such actions can even be counterproductive to progressing through the entire piece if you become steadfast in being stuck.
Today we focused on a small part of the sonata - bar 7. A point in the first movement that can reel an audience in with the first note or repel them entirely.
Sonata notes for Bar 7
Fast bow stroke, further away from bridge to create resonance, with gradually intense vibrato.
Use entire bow, be confident in strokes, play to those at the back of the audience!
Pay attention to fluidity of bow stroke, like a ballerina who doesn't break her stride.
We spoke about interpretations of the piece where we compared different playing methods by various cellists. I haven't actually found a playthrough that resonated with me fully but I do enjoy bits from many cellists. Deryn suggests listening to Yo Yo Ma's recording, possibly her favourite cellist.
Speaking of Yo Yo Ma.
info
Learning the cello as an adult started as a dare but has now turned into an ongoing love affair; I hope to one day make her sing to her full potential. In the meantime, all spare time and moments are dedicated to this wonderful instrument as I am unable to think about anything else, much to the dismay of my other half :}
This is an attempt to remember the classes I have taken so that I don't forget.
My wonderful teacher, Deryn ~ http://cellostudio.info/
This is an attempt to remember the classes I have taken so that I don't forget.
My wonderful teacher, Deryn ~ http://cellostudio.info/