HINDEMITH, Paul
Der Schwanendreher, concerto on folk songs for viola and small orchestra (reduction for viola and piano)
I. Zwischen Berg und tiefen Tal
Timothy Ridout, guest professor
Cristina Cordero Beltrán, student
Juan Barahona, accompanying pianist
After the student’s performance, Ridout offers some general remarks, such as playing repeated musical material with greater intensity. The opening was also too cautious and correct, and it should be more in keeping with the piece’s strong character, as if among mountains. He also advises her to dare to play closer to the bridge, even if the sound is somewhat less “pretty”. Between sections, he also suggests breathing more. Returning to the beginning, the professor gives more specific indications, which he demonstrates by playing, mainly relating to phrasing, changes of colour according to character, dynamics, point of contact with the bow and tension, rhythms, bow position, articulation, sound quality, contrasts, etc. They also address aspects such as the amount of bow for certain passages (use less), vibrato, breathing, and he insists on the phrasing, articulations and bow position required according to the musical character of each section. They also practise the pizzicato in a certain passage. Finally, Ridout suggests not relaxing the final chord too much, but rather that it should sound as if played by an organ.
Language: English
