Cello Intermediate 32: Introduction to Ševčík

In this video, we are looking at Otakar Ševčík's Op. 2, Part 1 from his celebrated School of Bowing Technique.

Ševčík is renowned for his technical method books for string instruments. At first glance, the pages can look quite intimidating because the print is dense and packed with information, but his underlying system is remarkably simple once you understand how it works.

The core theme and variations system

Ševčík's method is built around learning a simple, primary melodic pattern first, and then applying up to 50 different bowing variations to that exact same sequence of notes.

In Exercise No. 3, you begin by playing a basic motif across the strings, followed by a double stop passage. This core pattern is ideal for checking your sound quality and seeing if you can keep a solid, consistent, rectangular sound from the frog to the tip.

Alternating bow speeds

Once you have learned the basic notes, you turn to the variations printed in the book:

• Variation: instead of sustaining simple semibreves (whole notes), you hold a long, slow bow for counts 1, 2, and 3, followed by a rapid, energetic bow stroke on count 4. This trains your right arm to switch instantly between very slow and very fast bow speeds.
• Variation: you repeat the exact same pattern, but start on an up-bow instead of a down-bow, testing your balance and control in reverse.

As you advance through the variations, they introduce retakes, off the string strokes, uneven rhythms, and varied articulations. Working through Ševčík's exercises is one of the most effective ways to build a versatile, disciplined bow arm!