TMEA VIOLA 25-26
Exercises for Mazas - Etude #26 from Etudes Speciales, Op. 36, Bk. 1

Mazas Bow Exercises: Mixed On and Off the String (Copy)

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IN THIS LESSON

SWITCHING GEARS.

The quick changes of character and seamless transitions between on- and off-the-string strokes are part of the charm and challenge of this etude. Mastering these techniques requires practice to smoothly switch from playing on the string one moment to lifting and bouncing the next.

A) On and Off the String Transitions: One common bow pattern, which appears in measures 1-4, serves as a foundational exercise. Practice transitioning smoothly between on-the-string and off-the-string strokes within this pattern. Focus on hearing a round full sound on each note.

B) Up-Bow Accents: Another critical coordination exercise involves mastering the up-bow accent, as seen in measures 5-12. The challenge here is to avoid using too much bow on the accent and getting stuck at the frog, or failing to produce an accent due to insufficient space. To execute a proper up-bow accent, start with a burst of vibrato and a fast, deep front to the note. Follow this with a release of weight and a slower bow speed. This creates a clear, accented note without excessive bow movement.