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

Mazas Bow Exercises: Off-the-String (Copy)

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IN THIS LESSON

THE OFF-THE-STRING STROKE.

A bright and clear off-the-string stroke is essential in certain passages of Mazas 26. The presence of a dot above notes indicates that we need to hear space between these notes - but we will always be coming from the string. When the music emanates energy and dance-like qualities, we opt for an equally spirited stroke—one characterized by a crisp start, fast and light bow speed, and a resonant, lively sound.

It's crucial that each note in this brisk and light bow stroke resonates long enough to fully articulate its core and intonation, contributing to a pleasant and melodic sound. Avoid playing too short, as it can compromise the clarity of intonation and overall sound quality.

A) + B) Continuous Alternating Up and Down Bows:

  • Exercise A and B focus on an off-the-string stroke with continuous alternating up and down bows.

  • Begin each stroke by placing the bow on the string before the first note to ensure a consistent start.

  • Visualize the bow tracing a smiley-face shape in the air.

  • Our fingers should be relaxed and responsive, not tense and controlling.

  • Remember, the stroke originates from the opening and closing of the elbow, with the wrist acting as a flexible shock absorber.

  • This should feel like easy perpetual motion.

C) Multiple Up Bow Notes with Minimal Bow Travel:

  • Exercise C focuses on playing multiple up bow notes consecutively while minimizing bow travel.

  • Try to make the up and down bows sound the same as each other!

  • Imagine grabbing the string with the bow near the balance point and releasing it in a circular motion, swiftly retaking in the air with the wrist before returning to grab the string for the next note.

    • This bow stroke could be compared more to playing hop-scotch than running down the street.

  • It is particularly effective in injecting fun, high-energy, and playful elements into the music.

  • Ellen Rose, former principal viola of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, writes a very all-encompassing scale book which helps to build skills needed in orchestra playing, like off-the-string strokes, through scales.