JAVS Spring 2001

27

THE BASICS REVISITED: ARTISTIC DISTINCTIONS

A. In general, a mental concept of the music and of body movement precedes any action. Always hear first, visualize what it will feel like, and only then, play. The timing of this sequence is essential to playing accurately and consistently. B. A preparation or signal, given through breathing that mirrors the duration and character of the pulse, is essential to integrating the musical and the physical. Note the difference in duration and character of the pulse in the following two excerpts. Reflect this difference in the breath cue. In general, cultivate ease in breathing; when exhalation is complete, inhalation comes naturally.

Ex. 1. Brahms, Sonata Op. 120, No. 2, first movement opening

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Ex. 2. Brahms, Sonata Op. 120, No.2, second movement opening

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C. In the following excerpt, balance the viola with very little effort between head and hand. Good posture and body balance accompanied by release in head weight helps to facilitate this balance. Be sure that the viola is parallel to the floor. Avoid squeezing to hold the instrument. Find a position in which the instrument rests on the collarbone and the scroll feels very light.

Ex. 3. Bartok, Viola Concerto, second movement, opening

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