The Bohlen-Pierce system - La Scena Musicale

VIOLIN
True or False?
A “false string” is one that doesn’t
produce the intended pitch correctly
when brand new. Gut strings may ring false brand
new more often than synthetic; however, all strings can
become false with use. Many violinists use the term to
describe any string that doesn’t sound right; the life of
a string is dependent on its construction, frequency of
use, and even sweat. Some players replace their strings
every few weeks while others play happily for a year or
more on the same set.
Muted Moments
Placed on the bridge of the instrument to limit vibrations, mutes
can be made of metal, rubber, leather, and/or wood. Experimenting
with different mutes proves interesting where extensive use of
the mute is mandated, like in Prokofiev’s first violin sonata. Some
musicians prefer the warm resonance of a leather mute, while others
enjoy the metal-and-rubber Heifetz mute. And let’s not forget
the overbearing practice mute, perfect for hotel stays!
Did You Know?
Derived from pine-tree sap, rosin is rubbed on bow hair to better grip the strings
and make them speak. When choosing the
right rosin for your instrument, you have to
take climate into account. Lighter-coloured
rosin is better in humid climates, while
darker rosin is better for dry. If you travel, it
may be wise to carry a few options.
Carissa Klopoushak’s
VIOLIN TIPS
FOR THE BEGINNER
What would you consider to be an important, yet often overlooked
element of instrument care that violinists should
follow in order to maintain their instrument?
It’s important to get into good habits for storing your instrument
early on. Remember to loosen your bow, wipe the rosin from your
violin, and place your violin in a case, closed, with special attention
to the temperature and humidity. Avoid DIY repair jobs; seek professional
help, whenever necessary!
FOR THE INTERMEDIATE
LSM What is an essential daily routine that an intermediatelevel
violinist should have in their arsenal to maintain and
further develop their playing?
Stretching and properly warming up are paramount. Habits established
at this stage are more easily carried into the future. Scales
and studies, used wisely, decrease the time needed to learn new
material—a lifesaver. Once you’ve got a handle on traditional methods
(Flesch, Sevcik, etc.), try jazz/modal scales or Terje Moe
Hansen’s method.
FOR THE ADVANCED
LSM What would you recommend as a potentially inexpensive
way to upgrade a violin for someone who may not be able to
afford a professional instrument?
As Pemi Paull suggested in the February issue of LSM, seeing a
trusted luthier regularly is important. Strings and bow hair need
regular replacement, and the occasional sound post adjustment
(extensive experimentation can lead to an ideal placement) goes a
long way. Changing tailpieces, tail gut, chinrests, bridges, and
shoulder rests can help make meaningful changes to the sound and
projection of your instrument. However, it’s important not to over
think our equipment choices; often the equipment is not to blame!
LSM If you could recommend one work and recording that
would romance anyone into falling in love with the violin,
what would it be and why?
The G major Sonata by Johannes Brahms. It’s perhaps the most
lyrical composition among all of Brahms’s instrumental works. It
takes you on an emotional journey through bliss and sorrow, longing
and rapture. There are many wonderful recordings,
but one of my favourites is Joseph Suk and
Julius Katchen. [Brahms: The Violin Sonatas;
Joseph Suk, violin; Julius Katchen, piano; Decca:
Legendary Legends (1967)]
Winner of the 2009 Eckhardt-Grammatté Competition,
Carissa is highly sought after as a recitalist and chamber
musician. She performs with such ensembles as
Mooncrest, Portmantô, Boundary,
the National Arts Centre
Orchestra, and is a director of
the Ritornello Chamber Music
Festival in Saskatoon. Carissa is
completing a Doctorate in Violin
Performance at McGill University
with Jonathan Crow.
www.carissaklopoushak.com,
www.ritornello.ca,
www.tytitam.com
PHOTO Matt Smith
APRIL 2012 13