Cello Intermediate 21: Practising Bow Slurs
In this video, we will be discussing slurring and how to practise lots of different types. I love using scales to practise my slurring. By using a scale you know very well, like a two-octave C major scale, you don't have to worry about the notes, allowing you to completely zone in on your bowing technique.
Coordination: the bow vs. the left hand
Always start by playing the scale with separate bows to establish a big, healthy bow speed and a flowing arm. Then, try slurring two notes to a bow.
When practising slurs, it is very interesting to observe which hand is in charge of the rhythm:
- When the bow changes direction, the bow is in charge of the rhythm.
- When there is no bow change (during the slur), the left hand rhythmic action is in charge of the rhythm.
Every single time the bow changes, the left hand must change exactly together with it. It is a fantastic way to practise exact coordination between both hands while aiming for a really gluey, legato sound.
Sneaky string crossings
As you move on to slurring 3 notes per bow, you will encounter "sneaky" string crossings. This is where you have to cross a string without the left hand actually doing anything! In these moments, the right arm must take total control of the rhythm to ensure the crossing is smooth and exact.
Adjusting your contact point for longer slurs
When you try fitting 4 notes into a single bow, you will find you start running out of room. To fix this, you must change your contact point. Move the bow slightly closer to the bridge. It is slightly harder to manage the sound quality closer to the bridge, but it will naturally slow down your bow speed for you. This means you don't have to consciously think about saving the bow while trying to fit all those notes in.
The challenge of uneven slurs
Practising 5, 7, 9, or 11 notes to a bow feels quite funny. In general, humans don't like playing uneven time signatures or rhythms. Because we have two feet, we naturally prefer to march to an even rhythm. Anything outside of that metric norm feels a bit strange, which is exactly why they are great to practise!
Anticipating your string crossings
As you build up to 8, 9, 10, and 11 notes per bow, you have to concentrate intensely on counting.
Often, when we concentrate that hard on the left hand, the clarity of our bow changes goes out the window. If you notice your string crossings sound messy or late, it means you need to give more attention to your bow just before the crossing happens. You need to start the physical movement of the arm slightly earlier in the slur.
Keep going all the way up to as many notes as you can comfortably fit in one slur with a good quality sound. You will never be surprised by heavily slurred repertoire again!