Campagnoli: Phrase 4 (Copy)

PHRASE 4 -

MEASURE 13-16

This phrase returns to the unsettled feeling of G minor, characterized through the swells and accidentals in this phrase. Each accidental should be maintained until the end of its respective measure. These accidentals heighten the harmonic tension - consider using a faster and narrower vibrato to enhance this yearning and charged quality.

This phrase incorporates a bow technique involving sustained notes on one string paired with rhythmically playing on another. Focus on mastering intonation in the double-stops and finding the optimal string level to minimize tension in the bow arm while developing precision in this technique.

Phase 1 of Practice:

• Practice with bow subdivisions: Approach Measures 13-14 as 16th notes, with 4 bows per beat. Measures 15-16 can be played as 32nd notes, with 8 bows per beat. Focus on achieving a smooth, seamless bow stroke and begin exploring dynamics.

• Begin without the printed slurs, playing separate bows while learning the pitches with the left hand.

Phase 2 of Practice:

• Play the printed rhythm instead of subdividing with the bow.

• Incorporate the printed bowings.

• Introduce vibrato to the sustained notes and tied notes.

General Practice Strategies:

1. Despite dynamic changes, maintain a fundamentally quiet expression throughout this phrase.

2. Remember, harmonic tension does not mean physical tension! Ensure relaxation in your bow arm and fingers despite the harmonic tension in the music.

3. Maintain vibrato throughout to enhance physical relaxation and to convey a sustained melodic line.

4. Place fingers gently on the strings, feeling contact with the fleshy part of the finger pad to produce a deep, resonant tone.

5. In Measures 13 and 15, anticipate the placement of left-hand fingers early for the double-stop notes before tapping the second string with the bow.

6. Consider using an active vibrato for this phrase — somewhat faster and narrower given its energetic nature.

7. To master the rhythm, practice subdividing bow strokes, such as using a 16th- or 32nd-note subdivision.

Breaking Down the Phrase & Reference Guide to Previous Exercises:

Measure 13:

• Keep the bow elbow high to minimize the distance traveled when tapping the second string.

• Begin in a piano dynamic.

• This utilizes the technique of playing one string while rhythmically tapping another — refer to Exercise C, Measures 3-4.

• Use Exercise B from Left Hand double stop exercises to tune the double-stops accurately.

Measure 14:

• Shift to 3rd position on beat 3. Remember to play Eb and B natural.

• Execute a 4th finger extension on beat 4 from 1st finger D to 4th finger Ab. Leave 1st finger down as an anchor during this reach, for better intonation through the descending line.

• Shift to 1st position on the last note, playing B natural with 1st finger.

Measure 15:

• Return to the piano dynamic.

• Keep the bow elbow high for efficient string crossing.

• Reference Exercise C, Measures 1-2, for the technique of playing one string while tapping another.

• Use Exercise C from Left Hand double stop exercises to refine the tuning of double-stops.

Measure 16:

• All 32nd notes are played in 1st position.

• Between the first two notes, ensure accurate movement of the 3rd finger from F# (D string) to D (A string), maintaining the 2nd finger as an anchor.

• Note the accidentals: play Eb and F natural at the end of beat 3, and Bb at the end of beat 4.