Dotzauer #3

Youtube Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvfahXeM3_g
Grade: D
Specific Comments: Bow distribution/speed/pressure was considered, but not achieved. Would benefit from slow practice, as well as more bow work. Dynamics were sometimes present. Only 1 attempt was necessary to record. Tempo is still on the slower side of Allegro.

This was a very different experience from the last one. To start with, this etude is a lot shorter and a lot more redundant & a lot more scalar (as opposed to 3rds and 6ths) - what a relief! I didn't quite get to spend as much time with it as I would have liked unfortunately. I definitely benefited from #2 though, because the LH part was easily within my grasp from the very beginning. This had some good consequences (namely that I was able to work with within larger groups/sections and that I wasn't as stressed), but also some bad consequences (I really didn't do much slow work, which I think could have benefited both of my hands).

I also approached this one a bit differently than #2 by working backwards in larger phrases and by relying on the music more (as opposed to trying to play from memory right away). I found this to be beneficial, because it meant that there was less room for error in the initial learning process. I also found that looking at the music helped me be more considerate of the dynamics, which I failed to memorize (and in general, fail to pay attention to - it's a huge flaw in my playing, but this etude got me to start considering it a bit more) ... I still think it's really important to perform from memory, but I think it will generally be worth it to work with the music more in the future. I also think in general when working on music, I could benefit from being more analytical (though there obviously has to be a balance between analysis and physical performance, since playing cello is ultimately about the latter).

Generally, I feel good about the progress I'm making & am really looking forward to #4. I'm going to try to put more time into cello in general so I can put more time into this...


Rubric:
F - Failed to memorize notes and bowings within one week.
D - Notes and bowings are memorized, and piece is performed completely through without any stops or wrong notes (multiple attempts are acceptable).
C - Notes and bowings are memorized, and piece is performed completely through without any stops or wrong notes (multiple attempts are acceptable). Correct Bow Distribution is present.
B - Notes and bowings are memorized, and piece is performed completely through without any stops or wrong notes (multiple attempts are acceptable). Correct Bow Distribution and Articulation & Dynamics are present.
A - Notes and bowings are memorized, and piece is performed completely through without any stops or wrong notes on First Try. Correct Bow Distribution and Articulation & Dynamics are present.