Full Description
This book is an invitation for all who aspire to the highest level of ensemble artistry and wish to work more productively and joyfully within a musical ensemble. The concepts and techniques included help artists find their own unique vocabulary and tools to refine their music making process and learn how as a team to direct their group endeavors. The book offers a systematic approach to individual preparation for rehearsal, score study, planning and implementing a constructive and effective rehearsal, and the interpretive process. The authors address tension and conflict within groups, including strategies for working well together and creating an empathetic and healthy environment for rehearsals and performances. Approaches are highlighted for researching and discovery regarding the context, character and meaning of musical works and as well as cultivating vital collaboration with living composers. The final chapters include proven practical techniques, organized by their intended purpose for everyday use in rehearsals and teaching.
Based on more than 35 years of rehearsing, performing, and teaching by the Cavani Quartet, and inspired by the authors' mentors, teachers and students, these essential techniques are designed to give each ensemble member an equal voice in the interpretive process while solving technical issues. Topics include cueing and breathing, rhythmic alignment and ensemble, intonation, sound production, projecting expression, strategic listening, and balance. The final chapter includes a capstone technique called LBAD (Live, Breathe, and Die) that heightens the connection between ensemble members through nonverbal communication. Video demonstrations of selected techniques are included on the companion website.
Contents
Foreword by Peter Salaff
Preface
How to Use This Book
About the Companion Website
Acknowledgements
Introduction
Part I: Collaboration Basics to Build Your Team
Chapter 1: Our Rehearsal & Teaching Philosophy
Chapter 2: Working Well Together
Part II: Rehearsal Preparation and Process
Chapter 3: Individual Preparation
Chapter 4: Score Study
Chapter 5: Rehearsal Playbook
Part III: Inspiration and Interpretation
Chapter 6: Exploring Character
Chapter 7: Exploring the Composer's World
Part IV: Techniques for Productive Rehearsals
Chapter 8: Techniques for Cueing & Breathing Together
Chapter 9: Techniques for Rhythmic Alignment & Ensemble
Chapter 10: Techniques for Intonation
Chapter 11: Techniques for Sound Production
Chapter 12: Techniques for Projecting Expression
Chapter 13: Techniques for Strategic Listening & Balancing Voices
Chapter 14: The Capstone Technique: Live, Breathe, and Die (LBAD)
Notes
Appendices
Bibliography
Index
