Lesson 21 - Stiff wrists, New piece Sammartini

Today, after a brisk warm up performance, Deryn observes that my bowing wrist was not as relaxed and flexible as it should be so we did 'piston' exercises for the study by Sebastian Lee to try and encourage the wrist to be exaggeratedly relaxed and flambouyant. I do find this stiffening to occur more when we progress to more advanced exercises; tension and aches abound. It seems we need to address the root of the problem which is most definitely letting my whole being and muscle memory to relearn what she is supposed to do cello wise. Deryn says this will take time and only time will teach this muscle memory to be familiar with the techniques.

I may have to restart from the beginning with the basics and really fully concentrate on the techniques which would be a nice change from playing musically. I find that on its own, both left and right hands/arms are able to perform to a satisfactory level but when combined, I struggle with keeping the concentration level balanced. Again, Deryn says in time, it will come even more naturally to me as it sinks into the subconscious and I will be able to perform effortlessly. I certainly hope so :)

Next we played duet of the Bouree. As usual, I clam up and get too excited to perform and intonation suffered. Again, this is also due to not getting basic techniques as familiarised as it can be. I feel as if I will not be able to attain the level of playing that I want to be at no matter how often and hard I practise due to the time factor for my body to adjust. It is a tad annoying but therein lies the aptitude test I suppose. One day, Mr. Cello, you will be under my spell!

Finally, I get a new piece to practise ~ Mouvement d'une Serenade by Giuseppe Sammartini. I had a choice between 3 pieces which Deryn so kindly played for me to listen to and I picked this one because it had the most challenging bowing technique. Hopefully, I do not disappoint.