Evaluation on the project week with the sting section on two topics: Extended Techniques and the new way of performing with the Pynarello ensemble.
This is the reflection of the two group who worked on the topics
This week, we were fortunate to have Garth Knox, a remarkable violist and composer, share his expertise on extended techniques. Garth has a special ability to push the boundaries of string instruments, helping us all think about sound in new and innovative ways. I’m sure many of you were challenged to step out of your comfort zones and experiment with the viola, violin, or cello in ways you hadn’t imagined before.
Additionally, you worked with Pynarello on playing by memory. I wasn’t there but I think playing by memory is something that can really deepen your connection to the music and bring a new level of freedom and expression. It’s an intense skill to develop.
This project week wasn’t just about refining your playing or learning new techniques; it was about redefining how you approach music. Whether through technical innovation or musical freedom, this week was about expanding the possibilities of what we, as string players, can achieve.
Before we dive deeper into the discussion, there’s one point I’d like to address that’s essential for our growth as musicians. This week, there was a bit of a tendency for some of us to arrive late for rehearsals. While I understand that schedules can sometimes get busy, it’s important to remember that punctuality is a key part of professionalism in the music world.
In a professional work environment, arriving late to rehearsals is simply not acceptable. It not only affects your own preparation, but also the flow of the entire group. Being on time is a sign of respect to your fellow musicians, conductors, and, of course, to the music itself.
Let’s take this as a learning experience. Moving forward, I’d like to encourage all of you to aim to arrive five minutes before rehearsal starts. This gives you time to set up, tune your instrument, and be mentally prepared, so that when rehearsal begins, we can all hit the ground running.
These small steps in discipline will help us prepare for the professional world where timeliness and readiness are essential qualities.”
Now, let’s open up the conversation and hear about your experiences.”
1. Extended Techniques:
- How did you find working with Garth Knox and experimenting with extendedtechniques? Did it change the way you think about your instrument?
- Which techniques surprised you the most, or felt the most challenging to incorporate into your playing?
- Did these new sounds inspire you to rethink your approach to contemporary repertoire or even classical pieces?
2. Playing by Memory:
- Playing without sheet music can be daunting. How did working with Pynarello on playing by memory affect your performance and connection with the music?
- Do you feel that playing from memory changed how you communicated with the other musicians in the ensemble?
- How might this experience influence the way you prepare for future performances?
3. General Reflections:
• What was your biggest takeaway from this week? Is there a particular moment or
insight that stands out to you?
• How do you think this project week will influence your practice and performance in the future?
4. Challenges & Growth:
• Did you face any specific challenges this week? How did you overcome them,
and what did you learn in the process?
• What advice would you give to other students who might be hesitant to try something as bold as extended techniques or playing without sheet music?