Rhythm stability: focus on instrumental technique
Without a sense of rhythmic stability and coordination, we cannot progress musically. Our starting point is the understanding that translating general rhythmic stability into the playing technique of a specific instrument is challenging in many respects. Our approach is to develop cross-method strategies that are directly linked to the development of playing technique. Ideally, these are exercises that improve playing technique while simultaneously building rhythmic stability, as they offer added value for all playing levels. Our results so far are individual interim findings, although each has already evolved into a comprehensive topic. Other focal points are still in the experimental stage.
New
Left-hand pizzicato as a practicing technique
The development of the left-hand pizzicato as a practicing technique (LHP) is one of the more extensive results. Erdmute Hohage, the inventor of this practising technique, has also extended it to the use of the right hand and the integration of the whole body. This has lead to the booklet Pizzicato World violin and viola, a comprehensive practical book for learning the technique directly, suitable for all levels. In workshops we deepen the technique and also pass on the experience of applying it to specific passages of works.
Left-hand pizzicato as a practicing technique
A collection of exercises has also been created focussing on special playing techniques for high string players: scales, increasing fluency, string crossing, intervals as double stops, chord technique, left-hand pizzicato as a playing technique. The basis is the LHP, but examples are used to show how the topics mentioned can be practised sensibly. The collection is called ‘Improve with the left’ and is available as a mini subscription.
Further publications
Internalize rhythm
Piano
Internalize rhythm
We have also developed a systematic programme for the piano that enables beginners to combine rhythmic stability and coordination with the use of the body, as well as the development of the playing technique. It is a collection of 12 consecutive exercises called ‘Internalizing rhythm’ and is available as a mini-subscription.
