Cello Intermediate 14: One Octave Scales with Extensions

In this cello lesson video, we are looking at one-octave scales which include extensions. A great way to drill your extensions and make them feel natural is to practice them directly within your scales. Extensions are incredibly common in scales that have a lot of flats or a lot of sharps. Let's look at two different ways to approach them using the B flat major scale as our example.

Method 1: the pivot (forward and backward)

This method is fantastic for practicing the mechanics of moving in and out of an extension.

• On the way up: start in half position, bring your elbow forward, and execute a forward extension.
• On the way down: move your hand back to 1st position, and then execute a backward extension.

This method is highly recommended when you are playing a piece that is slow and legato. By returning your hand to its normal, closed C-shape whenever possible, you give yourself the freedom and relaxation needed to play with a beautiful vibrato.

Method 2: the static extension

Instead of pivoting in and out, this alternative method requires you to bring your elbow forward and simply stay in the extended position for the entire scale.

Your 1st finger will remain stretched out, pointing back towards your ear the whole time. While this can feel a bit more fatiguing, this idea of staying in position is absolutely essential for very fast playing, where you simply do not have the time to pivot back and forth.

Practicing flat and sharp keys

You can apply these two methods to both flat and sharp scales:

• Flat keys: B flat major and E flat major.
• Sharp keys: A major and D major.

A final tip for the C string

Whenever you are playing a scale that starts or ends on the C string (like E flat major), you must make sure your left elbow comes up and over. The 4th finger requires significantly more support when playing in an extended position on the lowest string, and lifting that elbow provides the necessary weight.