MARTINU, Bohuslav
Variations on a Slovak Folk Theme for Cello and Piano H 378
Torleif Thedéen, visiting professor
Luis Aracama Alonso, student
Ofelia Montalván, accompanying pianist
Regarding the beginning of the piece, Thedéen suggests that the student avoid giving everything from the start, and to reserve more because the climax is yet to come. Furthermore, it is interesting to anticipate what is to come. The professor also recommends having a more active finger in order to better control the bow. Thedéen also talks about how to graduate the dynamics and how to continue the phrasing after the thematic development. Long sounds can be sustained more with vibrato.
He also comments that when we move the left hand for a jump, we must ensure that the point of contact is close to the bridge. On the other hand, he suggests that the turns of repeated notes should be made more varied, using the bow to help. Another suggestion is not to make a glissando too exaggerated. Finally, the professor comments that a passage can be rhythmic without sacrificing expression.
Language: English
