
The goal of this course is to practise string crossings using short bow strokes. I will explain the main ideas while keeping the bow in a square position. I believe that these techniques are the best foundation for learning string crossings with the full bow later on, and for building good right-hand posture when playing on individual strings.
Some musical styles don't utilise long legato string crossings or playing near the frog at all. In such cases, musicians already gain all the essential knowledge from the early lessons of this course. Please be aware that knowledge alone is not enough to develop actual skill. I recommend staying with the early lessons as long as needed until you feel fully comfortable in physical actions.
You can read the full text in downloadable materials.
FIVE TOPICS
I believe that the foundation of good string crossing technique lies in proper movement from the upper arm — in other words, changing strings with the whole arm.
Later, when we use additional tools (the forearm, wrist, and fingers) for faster passages, playing near the frog, or in legato styles, a correctly activated upper arm will support our technique at all levels.
We will cover the following five topics:
Upper Arm Setup (Square Position)
Activation and Independence of Upper Arm Movement
Consistent Vertical Speed of the Upper Arm
Thinking Ahead While Moving
Minimising Movement
If you're already comfortable with all of this, this course may not be necessary for you ? But it can still give you ideas on how to maintain correct technique through short ‘warming up’ exercises, and how to integrate string crossing into your teaching.
Additional exercises if you or your students are still experiencing problems with the objectives described in previous lectures.
This is an on-growing course. At first, I shared PART 1, which includes sections from String Crossing in Short Strokes. There is a flood of materials in my drawers waiting to be shared in future parts, but even this first part already covers a very big subject.
I cannot simplify. I don't want to look for shortcuts, especially when mastering the subject is the best possible way. At the same time, studying all lectures properly is, in itself, a kind of shortcut — a shortcut to relaxed performing in the long term.
Since I am aware that we don't have much time these days, and also that diving too deep into technique is not a comfort zone for many talented musicians, I don’t expect a massive response to the course. Still, I wanted to share my rich experiences connected with life-time researches.
If you are really interested in improving your string changes, and you’re willing to give it your time and focus — here it is.
Even complete beginners can join and learn this technique after learning the basic bow hold as well as outstanding professionals and teachers.
I hope this course helps you connect more deeply with your technique and your music.
Enjoy your music!