Lesson 47 - New reportoires Marcello and Vivaldi

We started class with a revision of major and minor scales played with the common fingering patterns on Chapter 19 of Langin. Deryn reminds me that I should be able to tell her the notes at any point on the finger I am playing rather than just knowing which finger to play next on which string.

I must admit to not being quite as dilligent as I should at this aspect. I keep imagining the notes on a piano keyboard rather than the cello which is a habit I should try and desist as it only makes things more confusing as the patterns found on the piano is unique to itself as is the patterns found on the cello; akin to a fingerprint. This means you cannot apply one to the other at all and I have a long way to go before I am at a comfortable level of familiarity with the cello.

Today we had time from the technique side of things to play through the Popper and Grieg pieces. The exercises that Deryn recommended from last lesson has helped me tremendously in consolidating bits of technical challenges that has infuriated me previously and it has certainly proved itself during the performance as Deryn has deem it time I started on a proper reportoire! One advice that stood out for me from playing the Popper here is that I shouldn't be afraid to be rough with the cello and play to my heart's content - especially for the fortissimo bits - look to players like Slava and Du Pre where they aren't afraid to convey even the harshest of human emotions :}

The Marcello Sonata is a gorgeous baroque piece that I will have immense pleasure playing. Eversince playing an excerpt of it arranged as second position exercise in Langin, I went looking for youtube videos of the sonata performed in all of its movements. There is a plethora of interpretations but like Deryn, I really do prefer the slower ones where you are allowed to savour every note, phrasing and dynamic. Of course, there are always difference of opinions especially when it comes to interpretative works; naturally the more vocal they are, the lesser they 'do'.

Deryn has also given me an alternative to consider as a reportoire - C Major Concerto for Cello by Vivaldi. Deryn says even if it is an ABRSM Grade 4 piece, it shouldn't be too technically challenging for me.

Before I end my post, a little something in memory of Janos Starker - Thank you for being an inspiration.