The Strad Podcast

How to tailor the Suzuki Method to different students with violinist Meghan Faw

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 09:59:23 +0100

Suzuki-trained violinist and teacher Meghan Faw speaks to online editor Davina about How to tailor the Suzuki Method to different students – after all, all pupils are different and not one single approach is going to fit them all! Meghan speaks about her personal experiences with the method, and what she’s learnt throughout her career implementing the method in her teaching.

Find out more about Meghan's work at learnviolinonline.org and on Instagram @suzukiviolinteacher.

Read her article How to adapt the Suzuki Method for adult learners - violinist Meghan Faw

Read our article in our September 2024 issue: Mother tongues: Global Suzuki Method

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Listen to our previous episodes in this series:

Listen: The Strad Podcast: How to hold a masterclass with violinist Paul Huang

Listen: The Strad Podcast: how to teach collaborative skills with violinist Annie Fullard of the Cavani Quartet

Listen: The Strad Podcast: How to practise effectively with violinist Ray Chen

Andante - Sonata no.2

Bach

Meghan Faw, violin

How to hold a masterclass with violinist Paul Huang

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 09:30:00 +0100

Violinist Paul Huang speaks to online editor Davina about How he holds a masterclass, fresh from attending the Music@Menlo Summer Festival in August 2024. What do masterclasses mean to Paul, and should we even call them masterclasses? Paul talks about his methods of conducting classes to ensure that not only students get the most out of the shared experience, but the teacher as well.

Stay tuned for our next episode: how adapt the Suzuki Method with violinist Meghan Faw.

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Serenade Espagnole

Chaminade

Paul Huang, violin

Photo courtesy: Marco Borggreve

How to teach collaborative skills with violinist Annie Fullard of the Cavani Quartet

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 10:46:46 +0100

Violinist Annie Fullard speaks to online editor Davina Shum about how she teaches collaborative skills in her capacity as a chamber music teacher at various institutes and also as a member of the Cavani Quartet. She is the co-author of the upcoming book The Art of Collaboration: Chamber Music Rehearsal Techniques & Teambuilding which will be published by Oxford University Press this autumn.

Listen to why she believes curiosity and openness is key to creating a good chamber musician – and person – as well as why she thinks we should live in a chamber music world.

Stay tuned for our next episode: how to hold a masterclass with violinist Paul Huang.

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String Quartet no.2 in A minor, op.13 – I: Adagio – Allegro vivace

Felix Mendelssohn

Cavani Quartet

How to practise effectively with violinist Ray Chen

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 11:00:44 +0100

Our guest in this episode is none other than our September 2024 cover star, Ray Chen. If you’re one of his many followers on social media, you’ll know that the violinist has his own community-based practice app, Tonic, which aims to make practising a little less lonely and more collaborative.

In this episode, Ray and online editor Davina chat about how to get the most out of your practice, including Ray’s previous experiences practising when he was younger, managing your time and psychology, as well as why we shouldn’t neglect practising performance.

Read Ray's cover feature here!

Stay tuned for our next episode: how to teach collaborative skills with violinist Annie Fullard

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Tears of the Kingdom – The Legend of Zelda

Player 1

Ray Chen, violin / Royal Philharmonic Orchestra / Cristian Mǎcelaru, conductor

Decca Classics

Photo courtesy Meredith Truax

Episode 115: designing your own musical education as an adult learner with violinist Julia Reddy

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 09:30:00 +0100

Julia Reddy is the host of the Violin Class Podcast and teaches a studio comprising solely of adult learners. She and online editor Davina had a chat about how adult students can be proactive and design their own musical curriculum beyond the practice room - a completely different game from teaching children. What are your favourite ways to enrich your musical education?

Find Julia's Violin Class podcast: https://www.violinclass.co/podcast

Recommended listening:

How to immerse yourself in the violin world Violin practice strategies for busy people Advice from an adult violin student

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Episode 114: exploring resources and finding your teaching style with cellist Guy Johnston

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 09:30:00 +0000

Many of us as string players will find ourselves teaching in one way or another throughout our careers. We learn and pass on this great legacy of tradition that has gone before us. But what else informs our teaching? How do we find our groove, so to speak, as teachers and players?

Cellist Guy Johnston spoke with online editor Davina about finding his teaching style, particularly after returning to his alma mater, the Eastman School of Music in Rochester.

What’s it like, returning to the hallowed halls of your former school where you now call your former teachers colleagues? Guy shares his ‘a-ha’ moments of inspiration that he brings into his teaching, as well as his journey to delve into the wealth of teaching resources left to us from cello pedagogues of the past.

Find out more about Guy’s favourite resources here

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Night Seasons: I – Nox Perpetua

Rebecca Dale: Night Seasons

Guy Johnston, cello / Tenebrae / Philharmonia Orchestra / Nigel Short

Signum Classics

Episode 113: Uncovering Ysaÿe’s lost works with violinist Philippe Graffin

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 09:30:00 +0000

If you’ve read our February 2024 issue, you would’ve read our feature on the long-lost work by Ysaÿe, his Poème concertant. Violinist Philippe Graffin has recorded the work that had been undiscovered for more than a century – he joins online editor Davina in this episode to speak about uncovering Ysaÿe’s forgotten works, the history and inspiration of the piece, plus how he hopes to cement these lost works as staples of violin repertoire in the future.

Read: Ysaÿe’s Poème concertant: shining a light on a long-forgotten piece

Watch: Video: Ysaÿe’s Secret Sonata by violinist Philippe Graffin

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Poème concertant - Ysaÿe

Philippe Graffin, violin / Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra / Jean-Jacques Kantorow

Rêves

Avie

Photo credit: Marco Borggreve

Episode 112: making musical choices with violist and composer Jessica Meyer

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 09:30:00 +0000

How do you feel about improvising on a stringed instrument? While there are many musicians who specialise in this craft, you wouldn’t have to search far for string players where mention of the words ‘improv’ and ‘solo’ is enough to strike fear into their hearts.

Violist and composer Jessica Meyer spoke to online editor and cellist Davina about how the word ‘improvisation’ can be seemingly daunting for string players, and how it helps to approach it as ‘making choices’. She shares her story with incorporating improvisation in her warm-ups, and how the mind-body connection of music making inspires her and her students to create their own exercises to further enhance their playing.

Jessica’s new composer/performer portrait album I long and seek after will be released on 22 March on New Focus Recordings.

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‘O elegant giant’ from Space in Chains for soprano and viola

Viola and composer – Jessica Meyer

Soprano – Melissa Wimbish

Photo credit: Bill Struhs

Episode 111: juggling orchestral and solo playing with double bassist Michael Rieber

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 09:30:00 +0000

Double bassist Michael Rieber is the first solo double bass player from the NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchestra in Hamburg. Not only does he hold a principal position in one of Europe’s top orchestras, he’s also released a recording of French works called Nuits Blanches.

How does Michael find the time to take on two very high-calibre jobs and projects? Michael shares with online editor Davina the lessons he’s learnt throughout his orchestral career, including why patience is critical when it comes to preparing repertoire – both new and frequently revisited, as well as how he structures his preparation time.

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César Franck: Sonata in A major I. Allegretto ben moderato (transcription by Balthasar Brockes)

Alfred Desenclos: Aria and Rondo for Double Bass and Piano II. Rondo

Nuits Blanches

Michael Rieber, double bass / Norbert Goerlich, piano

Es Dur

Photo credit: Jewgeni Roppel

Episode 110: Stravinsky's kaleidoscope of colours with violinist Alena Baeva

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 09:30:00 +0000

Violinist Alena Baeva spoke with online editor Davina recently about the music of Stravinsky – specifically the Divertimento from The Fairy’s Kiss, which was arranged by Samuel Dushkin for violin and piano. She spoke about how this music encourages the player to harness the power of the imagination to showcase the kaleidoscope of colours displayed in Stravinsky’s writing.

She also speaks about staying spontaneous, as well as her approach and tips to playing tricky double stops. Plus, you’ll also hear about what instrument and bows she used to record her latest album, Fantasy.

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Divertimento from The Fairy’s Kiss K049

Pas de deux. Adagio

Stravinsky (arr. Samuel Duskin for violin and piano)

Alena Baeva, violin / Vadym Kholodenko, piano

Fantasy

Alpha Classics ALPHA1021

Photo credit: Jean-Baptiste Millot

Episode 109: the importance of a positive mindset with cellist Maja Bogdanović

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 09:30:00 +0000

Maja Bogdanović is no stranger to a busy life – she enjoys an international solo and chamber career as well as collaborations with regular musical partners, including her husband the violinist Daniel Rowland. Maja’s shared her thoughts with us previously on thestrad.com about travelling not only with a cello, but also with a small child. How does Maja stay on top of things? She and fellow cellist Davina Shum chatted about strategies for keeping an ideal mindset when you’ve got a busy career, including looking after your mental and physical health, as well as having a caring community around you, to avoid burnout and stress.

Do you have a particular strategy or mantra that you employ to avoid burnout and stress? Send an email to thestrad@thestrad.com.

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Cello Concerto No. 1- Op. 33 - I. Allegro non troppo

The Carnival of the Animals- R. 125 - The Swan

Camille Saint-Saëns

Lalo • Saint-Saëns

Maja Bogdanović, cello / RTS Symphony Orchestra / Bojan Sudjić

Challenge Classics CC 72949

Episode 108: In search of authenticity: exploring Brahms's Violin Sonata no.2 with Daniel Kurganov

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 09:30:00 +0000

If you’ve got a copy of our new February 2024 issue, (or seen it online) you would’ve seen our Masterclass feature on the first movement of Brahms’s Violin Sonata no.2, op.100 with violinist Daniel Kurganov. The interview for the Masterclass feature was just a tiny part of a larger conversation that, in addition to Daniel’s musical and technical advice on the work, included his wider thoughts on historical performance and the meaning of authenticity.

Have a listen to an excerpt online editor Davina's interview with Daniel, which starts off with him giving a bit of historical context on the piece that he has recorded and released recently with pianist Constantine Finehouse, on their album The Brahms Age.

Watch: Video premiere: Brahms Violin Sonatas on authentic instruments

Read: Daniel Kurganov: on starting the violin at age 16

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Brahms Violin Sonata no.2 in A major op.100

I: Allegro amabile

Daniel Kurganov, violin / Constantine Finehouse, piano

The Brahms Age

Hänssler Classic

Episode 107: back to basics with cellist Gabriel Schwabe

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 09:30:00 +0000

In our quest for virtuosic brilliance and flair in our music making, as string players, sometimes we forget that coming back to basics is important for solving many problems in our playing and performance. Many people to get distracted by the complexities of a particular obstacle, or perhaps try and tackle too many problems at once, leading to a sensory overload. Or perhaps overcoming challenges in string playing is so overwhelming and anxiety-inducing that you don’t know where to start!

Here to chat with online editor Davina in this episode is cellist Gabriel Schwabe, who is also a cello professor in Cologne and Maastricht. He advocates an awareness or ‘scanning’ of one’s playing and set-up, to pinpoint simple ways to solve problems and unlock one’s playing potential. He shares his favourite strategies, provides a few examples of how basic things have helped his playing and his students, as well as some useful exercises to stay on top of his playing.

Read Gabriel's Q&A on Bridge's 'Oration' Cello Concerto and his listening guide on the piece.

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IV: Allegro giusto

Bridge: Oration – Concerto elegiaco for cello and orchestra

Gabriel Schwabe, cello / ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra / Christopher Ward

NAXOS 8.574320

Photo credit: Studio Monbijou

Episode 106: 3D learning and creative teaching with violinist Rachel Cooper

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 09:30:00 +0000

Rachel Cooper is a violin teacher who was recently awarded the Emerging Artist Award given by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra at the 2023 Women in Classical Music Symposium. She’s a Suzuki teacher, a violin and chamber music coach at Junior Guildhall and works for Nicola Benedetti’s education initiative, the Benedetti Foundation. As part of her award and her continuing professional development, Rachel is planning to put her teaching approaches into a book, to help inspire music teachers to inject a little bit of magic into their lessons.

What’s so distinctive about Rachel’s teaching? Rachel speaks to online editor Davina about the concept of ‘3D learning’ and creative teaching – emphasising an all-round approach to music, including how something feels and sounds – not just how something looks – to embed information in a way that students understand and ultimately unlock students’ progress. She speaks about how tailoring her teaching methods to students gives you skills to become a better and more effective teacher.

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Visit Rachel’s website: https://rachelcooperviolin.com/

Photo credit: The Shannons Photography

Episode 105: active string teaching and learning with violinist Mahaliah Edwards

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 09:30:00 +0000

Violinist Mahaliah Edwards spoke to online editor Davina recently about her approaches to teaching students in a wide range of scenarios, which call for actively involving pupils in music making and learning, and with Mahaliah taking on the role of ‘being the teacher that she would’ve like to have had.’ Perhaps you’re a string teacher interested in hearing some ways to inject inspiration into lessons, particularly after a holiday break, or when students seem to become disinterested – Mahaliah shares her ideas behind music lessons with a broad perspective, and how teachers can also learn from their pupils.

Visit Mahaliah's website: mahaliaedwards.com

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Photo credit: Olivia Davy-Hoffman

Episode 104: Brescia vs Cremona with luthier Linda Lespets

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 00:12:53 +0000

The city of Cremona is revered as being the historical birthplace and home of the violin and violin making, with luthiers today still emulating the models of Stradivari, Guarneri and the like. But what about the makers in nearby Brescia? Despite being geographically close, the city of Brescia has a remarkably different story, producing instruments and makers with their own distinct style.

Here to shine a light on Brescian instrument making is Sydney-based luthier Linda Lespets, who puts into historical context what life was like for makers such as da Salo, Maggini and Rogeri and what influenced the choices they made when making their instruments.

Linda is the host of The Violin Chronicles podcast - check it out here.

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Episode 103: adult learner mindset with violinist Rachael Ridge

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 09:30:00 +0000

The topic of adult beginners and adult learners is one that resonates with many readers of The Strad. Here to chat with online editor Davina about the mindset of adult students is violinist and teacher Rachael Ridge, who has written extensively on the subject for thestrad.com. She’s the founder of the Adult Violin Academy and speaks about her experience teaching adults – particularly as adults will approach learning an instrument very differently from a child.

She speaks about the importance of growth and progression, having a community, not being afraid to make mistakes and to take risks, as well as other factors, that will help adult learners on their musical journey.

Find out more about Rachael here and her Adult Violin Academy Facebook group here.

Check out some of Rachael's blogs below.

The dark side of being an adult violin beginner: Rachael Ridge

10 tips on how to stay motivated as an adult beginner violin student

What are your experiences and challenges as an adult learner? Let us know at thestrad@thestrad.com

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Episode 102: teaching students to teach themselves with cellist Laurence Lesser

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 09:30:00 +0000

This year, cellist Laurence Lesser celebrates his 85th birthday, as well as 50 years at the New England Conservatory, where he is president emeritus. His numerous students appear in concert halls, orchestras, teaching studios and more around the world. He speaks to online editor Davina about his teaching methods and approaches, including the ‘what, why and how’ of cello playing, plus how teaching has informed his playing throughout the years.

The New England Conservatory will celebrate Larry’s 85th Birthday and 50 Years at the Conservatory with a concert at Jordan Hall on 13 November at 7:30pm with pianist Minsoo Sohn. From October to May, Larry will also be curating First Mondays at Jordan Hall, a concert series featuring musical friends and NEC alumni. Each concert is free and open to the public with online RSVP. Find out more here: https://necmusic.edu/concerts

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Bloch - Schelomo (Solomon), Hebraic Rhapsody for Cello and Orchestra

Laurence Lesser, cello / NEC Philharmonia / Hugh Wolff, music director and conductor

Fauré - Après un rêve

Laurence Lesser, cello / HaeSun Paik, piano

Photo credit: Carlin Ma

Episode 101: inside the Zemtsov viola dynasty with Dana and Mikhail Zemtsov

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 09:30:00 +0000

Hailing from a family of viola players are Dana and Mikhail Zemtsov. Ahead of the release of their album Fathers and Daughters, the Zemtsovs spoke with me about being part of a viola dynasty. How did this collective of violists come about? What makes a typical violist? The duo share how the family is united by instrument, as well as painting a picture of life home in a viola household, plus what it’s like to work professionally with your family members

The Zemtsovs's Fathers and Daughters album with pianists Anna Federova and Borys Federov will be out on 3 November 2023 on Channel Classics. Find out more here: https://lnk.to/fathersdaughters

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Cielito Lindo (arr. Dana Zemtzov)

Dana Zemtsov, Mikhail Zemtzov, violas

Fathers and Daughters

Channel Classics

Episode 100: Cheng² Duo on new works for cello and piano

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Recent visitors to thestrad.com may have noticed a video that premiered called Racing Horses, featuring a spirited performance from the cello and piano Cheng2 Duo, comprising siblings Bryan Cheng on cello and Silvie Cheng on piano. Racing Horses features on their upcoming album Portrait, which contains works by composers of Asian heritage, as well as two arrangements of Chinese folk songs, Racing Horses being one of them.

In an international operation that involved Bryan in Romania and Silvie in New York, both siblings joined online editor Davina for a conversation recently about the choices behind their album’s programming, how music can be used to celebrate heritage, diversity and representation, as well as doing justice to traditional Chinese instruments on the cello and piano. Plus, the two share details of what music-making was like during their childhood in Canada.

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Racing Horses/Sai Ma (赛马) by Huang Haihuai

Cheng2 Duo

Bryan Cheng, cello / Silvie Cheng, piano

Portrait

Centrediscs

Photo credit: Andrej Grilc

Episode 99: how to lead a string section with violist Daniel Foster

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Playing as a principal player in a string section of an orchestra certainly has its challenges – but how do you learn how to lead a section? There’s plenty of tuition on audition preparation and orchestral repertoire for students – but it's unlikely many string players attend a class called ‘Leading 101’ while at college! It’s certainly a job that comes with gained experience and feedback. Here to share his learning experiences of leading a section is violist Daniel Foster. Daniel joined the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington DC in 1993 and was appointed to principal viola in 1995 – sitting next to his father who was associate principal! As he reaches an important milestone of 30 years with the NSO, he shares his approach and philosophy on leading a string section.

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Episode 98: finding new double bass repertoire with Valentina Ciardelli

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Perhaps somewhat frustrated with the scarcity of double bass repertoire, Valentina Ciardelli is committed to finding and creating new repertoire for double bassists.

Valentina is the founder of the How I met Puccini project, transcribing arias for double bass and other stringed instruments. She speaks about showcasing and celebrating the double bass for what it is, idiomatic writing, and the ever-fascinating parallels between string playing and voices.

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Che puoi Farmi, non ti temo - fantasia su La Rondine per 2 Contrabbassi

Valentina Ciardelli, Manuel dell'Oglio - double basses

Photo credit: Juno Snowden/ Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance

Episode 97: Pavel Berman on playing Oistrakh’s Stradivari violin

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Violinist Pavel Berman is in the rather unique and fortuitous position of having the opportunity to play on the 1702 'David Oistrakh' Stradivari violin – not only that, but he has recorded the Shostakovich Violin Sonata recently with pianist Maria Meerovitch, a work that was written for Oistrakh himself!

What’s it like, coming face-to-face with the legacy of Oistrakh both in the music on your stand and the fiddle in your hand? Pavel spoke to online editor Davina about playing this special instrument, how it compares to other Strads and Guarneris he’s played before, and how the sound of the violin lends itself to Shostakovich.

Pavel Berman and Maria Meerovitch’s album Passacaglia will be released on Orchid Classics on 6 October 2023, featuring violin sonatas by Shostakovich and Respighi.

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II – Allegretto

Violin Sonata op.134

Dmitri Shostakovich

Pavel Berman, violin / Maria Meerovitch, piano

Passagcalia

Orchid Classics ORC100262

Photo credit: Franco Monti

Episode 96: Christian Tetzlaff on Bartók Violin Concerto no.2

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Ahead of an upcoming performance with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, violinist Christian Tetzlaff spoke to Davina about performing Bartok’s Violin Concerto no.2. When did he first encounter it? What are his favourite moments? How does he get through the monumental work in one piece?

Christian will be performing the Bartok on 30 September with the London Philharmonic Orchestra and Edward Gardner.

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I: Allegro non troppo

III: Allegro molto

Bartok – Violin Concerto no.2 Sz.112

Christian Tetzlaff, violin / Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra / Hannu Lintu

Ondine

Photo credit: Giorgia Bertazzi

Episode 95: Historical instrument chat with violinist Rachel Podger

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Violinist Rachel Podger is no stranger to the pages of The Strad magazine, having featured in several articles and reviews throughout her prolific career. Ahead of her busy upcoming season, which sees her as artist in focus at London’s Kings Place, artistic director of Brecon Baroque Festival, a recording release of the Goldberg Variations, plus principal guest directorships with Tafelmusik in future seasons, Rachel makes her first appearance in the podcast to speak about the tools of her trade – including how she met her 1739 Pesarini/Pazarini violin, other instruments she’s met throughout her career, plus an explosive anecdote about a gut E-string.

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Bach Toccata and Fugue

Tutta Sola

Rachel Podger, violin

Channel Classics

Episode 94: a theatrical Verklärte Nacht with cellist Matthew Barley

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Cellist Matthew Barley spoke to Davina recently about Schoenberg’s Verklärte Nacht, or Transfigured Night – a piece which is so epically challenging and takes the players and listeners on an emotional journey.

Matthew speaks about bringing other disciplines of theatre, electronics, dance and lighting to present a theatrical version of the work, which will be performed with the Mullova Ensemble in October.

The programme will be performed at Milton Court (London) on 18 October and Turner Sims (Southampton) on 19 October 2023.

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Photo credit: Marcus Tate

Episode 93: creative storytelling with cellist Alexander Hersh

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 09:30:00 +0100

You may have seen a video premiere on thestrad.com last week of a film called Absinthe featuring cellist Alexander Hersh. Absinthe is more than a film series – it’s also an album of music featuring works that were written before the European ban of the highly alcoholic drink, the music from which provides the soundtrack to a crazy narrative that sees Alexander being haunted by a cello-shaped bottle of green liquid. Alexander speaks to online editor Davina about combining film making, editing, directing, acting – not to mention music making – in collaboration with some close friends to build a creative form of storytelling that provides numerous access points for a wide range of audiences, as well as what classical music can learn from other creative industries.

Watch the first instalment of Absinthe here.

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Scriabin Poem, Op. 32, No. 1 in F-Sharp Major

Alexander Hersh, cello / Victor Santiago Asuncion, piano

Episode 92: remembering violinist Geoff Nuttall of the St. Lawrence String Quartet

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 09:30:00 +0100

The musical world was shaken in October 2022 when news broke out of Geoff Nuttall’s passing. Geoff was the founding first violinist of the St. Lawrence String Quartet, an ensemble that has enchanted audiences worldwide since 1989 and served as ensemble in residence at Stanford University since 1998.

The St. Lawrence’s co-founding violist Lesley Robertson joins online editor Davina in this episode, reminiscing about Geoff – including his incredible energy, his connection with audiences, plus the musical work that is the most fitting musical epitaph, featured in the group’s recent release of Haydn string quartets.

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Haydn String Quartet in B flat major op.76 no.4 ‘Sunrise’

I Allegro con spirito

St. Lawrence String Quartet

Phenotypic Recordings

Photo credit: Marco Borggreve

Episode 91: ’The Music Critic’ with violinist Aleksey Igudesman

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Coming to US audiences in October is Aleksey Igudesman’s show The Music Critic, which, with a cast of musicians and the actor John Malkovich, combines classical music, comedy and theatre to focus on 'the most horrible reviews of the most beautiful music ever written.'

Aleksey spoke to online editor Davina recently about the ideas behind the show, what we can learn from reviews and critics, as well as how to deal with a bad review.

Watch the trailer for The Music Critic here

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Schumann Piano Quartet - Andante cantabile

Dvorak Piano Quintet - Scherzo

Violins: Aleksey Igudesman, So-ock Kim

Viola: Max Baillie

Cello: Tanja Tetzlaff

Piano: Hyung-ki Joo

Episode 90: on the road with the Aizuri Quartet

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Gracing the headlines recently is the Aizuri Quartet, which has announced two new members of the ensemble in advance of its busy 2023/24 performing season. The upcoming year sees the quartet performing a range of repertoire around the US. Here to speak with online editor Davina in this episode is violinist Emma Frucht, who shared her insights and strategies for life on the road as a quartet – including how to prepare new works for a tour, ways to cope while travelling, as well as how the quartet makes the most out of its rehearsal time – particularly when time is limited.

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Komitas Vardapet (arr. Sergei Aslamazian) – Armenian Folk Songs

Yergink Ampel A (It's Cloudy)

Earthdrawn Skies

Aizuri Quartet

Episode 89: playing in Broadway shows with violist Stephanie Baer

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 11:35:25 +0100

Stephanie Baer is a violist who, in addition to serving as director of string studies and orchestras, plus professor of viola and chamber music at NYU Steinhardt, has enjoyed a multi-faceted musical career within the New York community. Notably, Stephanie held the chair of principal viola in the Broadway production of The Phantom of the Opera for 22 years. Phantom closed on Broadway earlier this year, but Stephanie shares with online editor and cellist Davina Shum on how she got started playing in Broadway shows, as well as how the versatility required in musical theatre bands and orchestras feeds your classical playing.

She speaks about the Broadway Orchestra, unique to NYU Steinhardt, which aims to train up students to play in musicals and ready themselves for a freelance career. Also discussed are strategies for keeping things fresh when you’re playing the same show every night!

Read Davina's articles about musical theatre here:

Read: Opinion: A case for depping

Read: How I completed a 118-show run (without losing my mind)

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Episode 88: Silkroad’s Global Musician Workshop with cellist Mike Block

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Happening from 6 to 12 August this year is the Silkroad Global Musician Workshop. Silkroad was founded by Yo-Yo Ma and aims to use arts to inspire cultural exchange and collaboration.

Cellist and director of the Global Musician Workshop Mike Block shares how musicians representing different cultures, traditions and disciplines come together for the training programme, which is modelled after the genesis of the Silkroad Ensemble, and creates an environment that fosters learning and collaboration. Mike emphasises the individuals behind every instrument and culture and how this leads to unexpected, yet rewarding exchanges.

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Garfield's Blackberry Blossom

Biribá Union

Mike Block, cello / Christylez Bacon, beat-box / Patricia Ligia, electric bass

Photo credit Kelly Lorenz

Episode 87: Yoga and string playing with violinist Melissa White

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 09:30:00 +0100

The principles of yoga are so easily transferred to string playing and vice versa – concepts such as thinking about one’s breath, mindfulness, discipline and being kind to oneself. Violinist Melissa White is a trained yogi and co-founder of Intermission, a programme that unites body, mind, breath and music making with yoga and meditation. She spoke to online editor Davina Shum just before she embarked on working at the Heifetz Institute as the yoga instructor and chatted about her journey into discovering yoga, the role of the breath in string playing, as well as her favourite exercises and approaches in incorporating yoga with her music making.

Check out the Intermission YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@intermission1777

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Photo credit: Dario Acosta

Episode 86: violinist Francisco Fullana on the 1735 Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ ’Mary Portman, ex-Kreisler’ violin

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Can you imagine playing Kreisler’s violin? If you’re Francisco Fullana, you don’t have to imagine. He is lucky enough to get to play the 1735 Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ 'Mary Portman, ex-Kreisler' violin, thanks to Clement and Karen Arrison through the Stradivari Society of Chicago.

He joins online editor Davina Shum in this episode to 'nerd out' on fine violins, speaking about the relationship he has cultivated with this violin over six years of playing and exploring the instrument.

Francisco also shares how the violin contributed specifically to his new album Spanish Light, which comprises works by Spanish composers, including Turina, Sarasate, Granados and more.

Spanish Light is out on Orchid Classics on 21 July 2023.

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Romanza andaluza - Pablo de Sarasate

Francisco Fullana, violin / Alba Ventura, piano

Spanish Light

Orchid Classics ORC100250

Photo credit: Miguel Arranz

Episode 85: the Dudok Quartet on ’What Remains’ and eclecticism

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 09:30:00 +0100

When you hear the word ‘eclectic’, what do you think of? Random, perhaps? Eclectic does not mean random, as illustrated by the guests of this episode from the Dudok Quartet.

Violinist Marleen Wester and cellist David Faber speak to online editor Davina Shum about the quartet’s new album What Remains, an eclectic mix of repertoire spanning 1000 years. What brings together music from the medieval era to the modern day? Marleen and David speak about how different voices coming together in the form of repertoire, instruments and quartet personnel are the grounds for collaboration and linking tradition with progression.

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What Remains (String Quartet no.4) – Joey Roukens

I: Oscillations

II: Motectum

Dudok Quartet

What Remains

Rubicon

Photo credit: Green Room Creatives, Yuri Andries

Episode 84: double bassist Luis Cabrera on performing Bach Cello Suites

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Luis Cabrera the principal bass of the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra and a professor at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. When he’s not doing either of those jobs, he’s tackling some monumental solo repertoire – Bach’s Cello Suite no.1… on double bass!
Luis chats with online editor Davina Shum about his long journey preparing and recording this suite, his approaches to playing solo Bach, as well as strategies for playing a work not technically written for your instrument.

Watch Luis perform the Courante from Bach Cello Suite no.1: https://bit.ly/3NZhxYk

Read Edicson Ruiz's thoughts on the Bach Cello Suites on double bass in our July 2023 issue Sentimental work.

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II - Allemande

Suite for Solo Cello no.1 in G major BWV 1007

Johann Sebastian Bach

Luis Cabrera, double bass

Photo credit: Elbert Besaris

Episode 83: making the transition from student to fine instruments with Peter Herresthal

Thu, 18 May 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Most string players will get to a point in their career where their faithful instrument has served them to the best of its ability, and the time has come for the player to think about upgrading to a fine instrument. It can be very exciting, the prospect of finding the best instrument, but also daunting – we don’t have to mention how expensive fine instruments go for, which understandably means that a lot of these options are out of reach for students or young emerging artists.
Violinist Peter Herresthal spoke with online editor and cellist Davina Shum about making the transition from a student instrument to a fine instrument, having worked for Dextra Musica and now serving as artistic director of the Anders Sveaas Trust – both of which have a collection of fine instruments that are loaned to up-and-coming artists. He speaks about his experience acquiring his Guadagnini, other violins he’s met along the way, as well as the different options and strategies young artists can take when looking for a fine instrument.

Read our article Postcard from Oslo: ‘Master to Master’ symposium in our May 2023 issue

Read about Johan Dalene's recent Stradivari acquisition, courtesy of the Anders Sveaas Trust

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III: Rounds

Violin Concerto op.23

Thomas Adès

Peter Herresthal, violin / Norwegian Radio Orchestra / Andrew Manze

BIS

Photo courtesy Mats Bäcker

Episode 82: Violinist Tessa Lark on The Stradgrass Sessions

Thu, 04 May 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Tessa Lark’s long awaited Stradgrass Sessions album is out on 5 May, comprising a melting pot of styles, influences and collaborations in one disc. She spoke online editor Davina Shum recently about how her musical upbringing in Kentucky combining Americana and classical has shaped her, the versatility of her c.1600 Maggini violin, plus why one of the tracks on her album has her chasing good vibes.

Read our Session Report on the album in our October 2020 issue here.

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Le Soka – Cheese in the Wine

Tessa Lark, violin

The Stradgrass Sessions

First Hand Records

Photo credit: Benjamin Allen

Episode 81: TwoSet Violin’s Brett Yang on the ‘Empress Caterina’ Stradivari

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 09:30:00 +0100

TwoSet Violin celebrated a significant milestone late in 2022: upon reaching 4 million subscribers on YouTube, the violin comedy duo put on a performance of a lifetime with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, with Brett Yang playing the Mendelssohn Violin Concerto, and Eddy Chen joining him later for the Bach Violin Concerto for two violins. Not only this, but for the occasion, Tarisio loaned the pair two Stradivari violins from 1708 – the ‘Empress Caterina’ and ‘Regent Superb’. What an opportunity!

Brett Yang chats to online editor Davina Shum about his experience playing this instrument, what it taught him about his playing, as well as other instruments he’s played throughout his career.

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III Allegro molto vivace

Violin Concerto in E minor op.64

Felix Mendelssohn

Brett Yang, violin / Singapore Symphony Orchestra / Rodolfo Barraez, conductor

Episode 80: Malin Broman on multi-instrumentalism

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 09:30:00 +0100

How many people does it take to perform the Mendelssohn Octet? In the case of Malin Broman, one. You might remember her pandemic-era video where she performed all eight parts of the finale – including that fiendish opening in the second cello part. Malin speaks to online editor Davina Shum about her journey into multi-instrumentalism and the versatility and different perspectives that come with playing other instruments.

Watch Malin’s videos here!

One performer plays Mendelssohn’s Octet

Eight Malin Bromans perform ‘A Room of One’s Own’ by Britta Byström

Passacaglia by Händel/Halvorsen - but not as you know it!

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IV: Presto

Octet in E-flat major op.20

Felix Mendelssohn

Malin Broman, vn 1 / Malin Broman, vn 2 / Malin Broman, vn 3 / Malin Broman, vn 4 / Malin Broman, va 1 / Malin Broman, va 2 / Malin Broman, vc 1 / Malin Broman vc 2

Episode 79: Iris Zhulla on bow repair and restoration

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 09:30:00 +0000

Luthier and bow maker Iris Zhulla features in The Strad March issue Trade Secrets with a step-by-step guide on repairing a bow thumb groove with epoxy and modelling clay. Iris speaks about the importance of repairing, restoring and preserving our bows, given the precarious situation of pernambuco wood at the moment. Rather than writing off bows that require extensive surgery, Iris advocates repair whenever possible, as well as better education for players, students and their parents on simple, everyday habits we can instil to keep our bows in better health for longer.

Read Iris’s Trade Secrets on repairing a bow thumb groove with epoxy and modelling clay in the March 2023 issue here.

Learn about and donate to Alliance-USA here: https://www.alliance-usa.org/donate/

Watch Lynn Hannings speak about the pernambuco crisis: CITES changes and ramifications at the Women in Lutherie Conference 2022 here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPSO51H33DM

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Episode 78: Seth Parker Woods on practising octaves for cellists

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 09:30:00 +0000

The technique of playing double-stopped octaves can strike fear into the hearts of many a cellist – it certainly can be a daunting and overwhelming concept for players. But it doesn’t have to be. Here to give his tips on practising and teaching octaves for cellists, as well as how to avoid ‘mental catastrophising’ is Seth Parker Woods. Seth is a Grammy-nominated cellist who is assistant professor of practice - Cello and Chamber Music at Thornton School of Music, University of Southern California, and he provides a Technique article in our brand new March issue on this topic.

Seth’s album Difficult Grace will be released on 14 April on Cedille Records.

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Allemande

Suite for Solo Cello in G major BWV 1007

Johann Sebastian Bach

Seth Parker Woods, cello

Recorded by Sang Wook ’Sunny’ Nam at Jacob’s Well Mastering

Photo credit: Michael Yu

Episode 77: 2023 Sphinx Competition winner Njioma Grevious

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 09:30:00 +0000

Fresh from her Senior Division victory at this year’s Sphinx Competition is violinist Njioma Grevious, who speaks with online editor Davina Shum about competitions and performance. She shares her chosen preparation strategies, what helps her embody the character of the piece she’s playing on stage, as well as her hopes for her future career. Plus, what can string players learn from flute players?

Watch Njioma’s performance of the Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Violin Concerto in the Sphinx Competition Senior Division finals here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9D65zvapo0&list=PL5BN_oivpxmQFFkf2xh4RNCB7TZk_GJKt

Other podcast episodes you may like:

Listen: The Strad Podcast Episode #34: Maria Ioudenitch on her competition success

Listen: The Strad Podcast Episode #17: Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider on competitions

Listen: The Strad Podcast #13: Dr. Renée-Paule Gauthier on dealing with performance anxiety

Photo credit: Jiyang Chen

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Episode 76: Violist Nick Revel on practising scales

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 09:30:00 +0000

How do you feel about scales? Many people would agree that they play a necessary part in our musical education as string players, though most people will have had mixed feelings about implementing them in practice.

Violist of the PUBLIQuartet, composer and educator Nick Revel speaks to online editor Davina Shum about the role of scales in his playing, both past and present. Nick has devised a play-along tool for practising scales and arpeggios called DragonScales and he shares what this scale system can offer the modern player.

Find out more about DragonScales here. Sheet music is available here.

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Fly Trap

Dream Collider

Nick Revel

Sapphire Records

Photo credit: Ryan Scherb

Episode 75: Patricia Kopatchinskaja on Brahms, Bartók and Janáček

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 09:30:00 +0000

Patricia Kopatchinskaja speaks to online editor Davina Shum about her recent programme of Janáček, Bartók and Brahms – including how she has to embody the composers’ wishes on stage. Not only has she recorded this programme of violin sonatas with pianist Fazil Say, she has also taken it on tour. How does she keep the pieces fresh and spontaneous on the road and in collaboration? Have a listen to her insights on performing these works.

Check out Patricia and Fazil's 'Strad Recommends' album review in the February 2023 issue here:

Find the album here: https://lnk.to/JanacekBrahmsBartokAr

The duo will be on tour with the programme on the following dates:

2 June: Baden Baden

3 June: Essen

4 June: Madrid

5 June: Barcelona

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I: Con moto

Sonata for Violin and Piano JW IIV7

Leoš Janáček

Patricia Kopatchinskaja, violin / Fazil Say, piano

Brahms, Bartók and Janáček

Alpha Classics

Alpha 885

Photo credit: Marco Borggreve

Episode 74: Violinist Rune Tonsgaard Sørensen on new Nordic folk music

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 09:30:00 +0000

As well as being violinist of the Danish String Quartet, Rune Tonsgaard Sørensen is also a member of the folk trio Dreamers’ Circus. In an aim to pass on the traditions of Nordic folk music to the next generation of musicians, the trio has devised a resource called Handed On – a project comprising original folk music in the form of sheet music and YouTube videos. If you’re interested in incorporating more (or any) Nordic folk music in your lessons, listen on to what Rune has to say. He spoke about the role of folk music in his own education, the parallels between Handed On and the Suzuki Method, as well as having more variety of repertoire in lessons.

Find out more here https://www.handedon.com/

https://edition-s.dk/music/dreamers-circus/dreamers-circus

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Mads Hansens Polka

Stormpolskan

Handed On

Dreamers’ Circus

Photo credit: Caroline Bittencourt

Episode 73: Cellist Alisa Weilerstein on ’Fragments’

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 09:30:00 +0000

Alisa Weilerstein is embarking on a multi-year project called Fragments – comprising all 36 movements of Bach’s solo cello suites, interweaved with new commissions from 27 diverse composers. Alisa speaks to online editor Davina Shum about how this project came about, how a combination of theatrical elements come together to provide a unique musical experience, and why it’s good to jump into seemingly daunting projects with both feet.

Fragments 1&2 will premiere in Toronto on 28 January. Alisa will perform Fragments 2 in Irvine, CA (12 March) and Fragments 1 in Santa Barbara, CA (10 March), La Jolla, CA (14 March) and at New York’s Carnegie Hall (1 April)

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Courante

Suite for Solo Cello no.2 in D minor - Bach

Alisa Weilerstein, cello

PENTATONE PTC5186751

Photo credit: Marco Borggreve

Episode 72: Liam Byrne on the viola da gamba

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 09:30:00 +0000

Liam Byrne’s website states that he ‘spends most of his time playing either very old or very new music on the viola da gamba’ – often involving electronics. Perhaps you might think of the viola da gamba playing only historical music – Liam shared with online editor Davina Shum his approach of playing a wide range of repertoire with new technology and how in doing so, it opened up a world of colour and timbre.

Liam will appear at the d&b Soundscape event on 20 January 2023 at Sound Unwrapped, Kings Place. Find out more information here.

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Long Phrases for the Wilton Diptych – Nico Muhly

Concrete

Liam Byrne, viola da gamba

Photo credit: Tom Roelofs

Episode 71: David Garrett on Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ violins

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 09:30:00 +0000

Because of their rarity and exquisite craftmanship, the famed violins of Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ fetch a high price – including the 1741 ‘Vieuxtemps’ which boasts the title of the world’s most expensive violin. Recently, violinist David Garrett fulfilled a lifelong dream of acquiring a del Gesu violin from 1736 – he joins online editor Davina Shum in this episode to speak about what ‘del Gesù’ violins mean for him, as well as his new ‘del Gesù’ Club, where owners, players and collectors of ‘del Gesù’ violins gathered to play, observe and discuss all things ‘del Gesù’.

Find out more about David’s ’del Gesù’ Club at guarneridelgesu.com

Read David's account of acquiring his 1736 ’del Gesù’ violin here.

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6 lieder op.34 II Auf Flügeln des Gesanges – Felix Mendelssohn

The Four Seasons 'Winter' II Largo – Antonio Vivaldi

David Garrett, violin

Iconic

Deutsche Grammophon

Photo credit: Christopher Koestlin

Episode 70: Gwendolyn Masin on three unknown violin pieces you should know

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Violinist Gwendolyn Masin is an intrepid explorer of neglected violin works throughout history. In this episode, she shares with me three short pieces that she believes really should enjoy more time in the spotlight of staple repertoire; by Vítězslava Kaprálová, Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco and Lazare Saminsky.

Interested in exploring these works? Here are links to the scores and Gwendolyn's recommended recordings:

Pieces in order of mention:

Vítězslava Kaprálová, Burlesque

Score:

http://www.kapralova.org/EDITION.htm

+ Recording

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkHDYcaKeWw

Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Ritmi

Score:

https://imslp.org/wiki/Ritmi,_Op.15_(Castelnuovo-Tedesco,_Mario)

https://mariocastelnuovotedesco.com/works_with_opus/ritmi/

+ Recording:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3ptU5zQ-X8&t=6s

Lazare Saminsky, Hebrew Rhapsody

Score:

https://www.universaledition.com/lazare-saminsky-2717/werke/hebraeische-rhapsodie-9936

Recording (by Orsolya Korcsolán):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPnIQCeT1Cw

Read Gwendolyn's online article 'Shining a light on Poldowski' here

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Tango

Irène Wieniawska (Poldowski)

Gwendolyn Masin, violin / Vera Kooper, piano

Legends

Orchid Classics ORC100210

Photo courtesy Neda Navaee

Episode 69: Heather Noonan on the future of pernambuco

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Online editor Davina Shum speaks to Heather Noonan, the vice president for advocacy, League of American Orchestras. Heather attended the 19th CITES meeting in Panama City, where on 25 November, a decision was made to keep pernambuco wood under CITES Appendix II, with modified wording. What does that mean for you? Heather explains what the modified classification entails, as well what measures musicians and bow makers can take to ensure the future of this precious wood.

Read: Future of pernambuco decided at CITES convention

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Episode 68: Aubrey K Alexander on bridge carving

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 09:30:00 +0000

If you’re a player, you’ve probably learnt from an early age to respect the bridge. Here to demystify the topic slightly for players is Aubrey K Alexander, winner of two gold medals for her viola and cello bridges at the International Violin Bridge Competition in October 2022.

Find out how long it typically takes her to make a bridge, as well as the challenges that come with crafting such an intricate component of a stringed instrument, as well as what German Shepherd puppies have to do with bridges.

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Episode 67: Violinist Curtis Stewart on Julia Perry’s Violin Concerto

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Julia Perry (1924-1979) was an American composer, who studied at Tanglewood, Juilliard and in Paris with Nadia Boulanger, where she won the Boulanger Grand Prix for her Viola Sonata. She was the recipient of two Guggenheim Fellowships and also studied in Italy with Luigi Dallapiccola. Despite her prolific achievements, Perry's work has fallen into obscurity, including her Violin Concerto of 1963.

Here to shine a light on her work is violinist Curtis Stewart, who will be giving the premiere performance of Perry’s Violin Concerto with the Experiential Orchestra and James Blachly on 2 December in New York. Curtis speaks with online editor Davina Shum about the unexpected logistics of programming an unknown work, as well as the challenges that come with the piece, and why this work should be performed more often.

Curtis will perform Julia Perry's Violin Concerto on Friday 2 December 2022 at 8pm with the Experiential Orchestra and James Blachly, at the DiMenna Center for Classical Music, 450 West 37th Street, New York, NY. More information can be found here.

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Episode 66: Cellist Anastasia Kobekina on choosing the right strings

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 09:30:00 +0000

This episode is brought to you in association with For-Tune Strings.

Today’s podcast guest is cellist Anastasia Kobekina, who was lucky enough to have the opportunity to help develop For-Tune’s new Opal Gold cello strings, through a series of trials and feedback. Not many string players get the chance to have direct input on their ideal set of strings: Anastasia shares with online editor Davina Shum what she looks for in an ideal string, including the type of sound and playability.

Do you have an opinion on an issue raised in The Strad or on The Strad online, why not write us a letter? If yours gets chosen as The Strad’s Letter of the Month, a set of For-Tune Opal Titan violin or cello strings will be all yours! Email thestrad@thestrad.com

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Fandango Per Violoncello Solo

Giovanni Sollima

Anastasia Kobekina, cello

Ellipses

Mirare MIR 604

Photo credit: Julia Altukhova

Episode 65: Trio Con Brio Copenhagen on fine Italian instruments

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Sisters Soo-Jin and Soo-Kyung Hong are the violinist and cellist respectively of Trio Con Brio Copenhagen. They speak to online editor Davina Shum about their fine Italian instruments that they play – Soo-Jin a 1670 Andrea Guarneri and Soo-Kyung a Grancino cello c.1600. Soo-Jin and Soo-Kyung speak about how these two instruments – or ‘old fellows’ in their words – prefer certain climates, as well as what they do to keep their instruments happy. It’s not always easy, it seems!

The members of Trio Con Brio Copenhagen are artistic directors of Chamber Music at Lundsgaard, a Postcard from which will appear in the March 2023 issue of The Strad. Underscoring the intro and outro of this episode is the third movement from Arensky's Piano Trio in D minor from the trio's album Shostakovich/Arensky Piano Trios, out on Orchid Classics.

Both players are endorsed by Jargar Strings and Thomastik-Infeld Vienna. Soo-Kyung plays her Grancino cello courtesy of the Augustinus Foundation.

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III Elegia. Adagio

Piano Trio no.1 in D minor, op. 32

Shostakovich/Arensky Piano Trios

Trio Con Brio Copenhagen

Orchid Classics

Photo credit: Nikolaj Lund

Episode 64: Cellist Sophie Kauer on her role in ’TÁR’

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Sophie Kauer is a 21-year-old cellist who features in a new film called TÁR. Directed by Todd Field and starring Cate Blanchett in the title role as Lydia Tár, a monumental figure in classical music, Sophie features as a new recruit in a German orchestra. It’s not your typical gig coming out of music college – in fact, Sophie is still in the middle of her undergraduate studies! Sophie shares with online editor Davina Shum her experience of scoring a role in a full-length feature film, as well as the challenges that come with not only acting, but delivering the Elgar Cello Concerto in front of a cast and crew.

The TÁR concept album is out now on Deutsche Grammophon. TÁR will have wide release in the US on 28 October, with UK release set for January 2023.

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Elgar Cello Concerto in E Minor Op. 85: 4, Allegro

Music from and Inspired by the Motion Picture TÁR

Sophie Kauer, cello / London Symphony Orchestra / Natalie Murray Beale

Deutsche Grammophon

Episode 63: Alina Ibragimova on historically informed performance

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Exploring the topic of historically-informed performance in this episode is violinist Alina Ibragimova. She’s got a new album out now of the Telemann Fantasias for solo violin, that she’s recorded on a venerable Amati instrument, with a baroque bow and gut strings. Alina shares her personal journey of discovering historically informed performance, as well as some tips to approaching the style – including how it’s not just about playing without vibrato.

Alina is the first violinist of the Chiaroscuro Quartet, which features in our November 2022 Session Report. Check it out here: https://www.thestrad.com/for-subscribers/session-report-the-chiaroscuro-quartet-on-mozarts-prussian-quartets/15496.article

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Fantasia no.7 in E flat major TWV 4020

I: Dolce

Telemann Fantasias for Solo Violin

Alina Ibragimova, violin

Hyperion

Photo credit: Eva Vermandel

Episode 62: Frank Huang on orchestral acoustics in the new David Geffen Hall

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Our October issue explores the topic of how an orchestra’s home concert hall affects its sonic fingerprint. In this episode, concertmaster of the New York Philharmonic, Frank Huang, speaks to online editor Davina Shum about the Philharmonic’s brand new David Geffen Hall. How do a hall’s acoustics affect what Frank asks of his section, and beyond? How is this hall different from the Philharmonic’s previous home, the Avery Fisher Hall? Frank shares his initial impressions of the new hall, his favourite halls he’s played in, as well as how he’s looking forward to exploring the sound in the new venue.

New York Phil Returns Home will be held from 12 to 18 October, while two opening galas will be held on 26 and 28 October. Click here for more information.

Check out Boston Symphony Orchestra's principal double bassist Edwin Barker's Opinion: Does an orchestra's home hall affect its sound?

This article features in our October 2022 issue, on sale now.

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Photo credit: Chris Lee

Episode 61: Amanda Ewing and Anne Harris on luthier/player collaboration

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Fiddler Anne Harris was looking to expand her violin sound from her current 1961 Roth violin, when, while scrolling on Instagram, came across Amanda Ewing – the first Black female luthier on record in the United States. After striking up a new relationship and with the help from GoFundMe, Amanda will make a new instrument for Anne, making it the first violin ever to be commissioned between two African American women.

Their conversation with online editor Davina Shum illustrates the importance of representation, including how Amanda got into lutherie, how Anne communicates her vision to Amanda, as well as how personality of an instrument’s sound lies not only in the wood, but in the hands of the maker.

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Photo credit: Mike Belleme, courtesy GoFundMe

Episode 60: Nemanja Radulović on ’Roots’

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Serbian-French violinist Nemanja Radulovic has new album coming out called Roots. It contains a very international and diverse programme, with pieces from Serbia, to North Macedonia, Spain, Brazil, France, Japan, plus many more countries. Nemanja also spoke about the role of violin playing during his childhood, including his musical heroes and the influences of the West and East in Serbia.

Read our June 2022 feature ‘Serbian String Playing: Free Spirits’ here: https://www.thestrad.com/for-subscribers/serbian-string-playing-free-spirits/14831.article

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L’Indifférence – Tony Muréna and Joseph Columbo

Nemanja Radulović, violin / Double Sens

Roots

Arrangements by Aleksander Sedlar and Nemanja Radulović

Warner Classics

Photo credit: Sever Zolak

Episode 59: Charlie Siem on Beethoven

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Violinist Charlie Siem chats to online editor Davina Shum about the Beethoven Violin Concerto and the two Romances, which he has recently recorded on Signum Classics. He speaks about how he first encountered the works, what’s going on in his head during the orchestral introduction to the concerto, plus how he deals with Beethoven’s sometimes gnarly pianistic writing.

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Violin Concerto in D major op.61

Ludwig van Beethoven

I: Allegro ma non troppo

III: Rondo. Allegro

Charlie Siem, violin / Philharmonia Orchestra / Oleg Caetani, conductor

Signum Classics

SIGCD704

Episode 58: Bjarte Eike on the Playhouse Sessions

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Norwegian violinist Bjarte Eike, with his group the Barokksolistene, created the Alehouse Sessions in 2017, which is now being followed up by the Playhouse Sessions. It takes inspiration from music-making scenes in 17th century England, during the times straddling Oliver Cromwell’s Commonwealth and the Restoration of the Monarchy with King Charles II.

Bjarte and his colleagues create a show environment that is not just about the music, but embraces high-risk creativity as well as making mistakes. He also speaks about the importance of live audiences, including how Bjarte uses booze to bring the audience into his curated alehouse environment.

Bjarte and the Barokksolistene will appear in Purcell’s Playhouse and The Alehouse Sessions Double Bill at the Southbank Centre on 23 September. More information can be found here.

The Jolly Pilgrim

Can She Excuse Puck’s Wrongs

Bjarte Eike, violin/director / Barokksolistene

The Playhouse Sessions

Rubicon Classics

Photo credit: Ivan Korč

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Episode 57: Augustin Hadelich on Recuerdos and Ricochet

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Augustin Hadelich has a new album out now, called Recuerdos – featuring works by Sarasate, Prokofiev, Britten and Tarrega, brought together, perhaps surprisingly, by a Spanish theme. Augustin explains what draws these pieces together.

The piece that gives the album its name, Recuerdos de la Alhambra features some rather impressive ricochet bowing on Augustin’s recording. If you struggle with ricochet – let’s be honest, who doesn’t? – then listen out for Augustin’s thoughts and approaches to this technique.

Read Augustin's interview on recording Suzuki repertoire: https://bit.ly/3o4gQPy

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Britten Violin Concerto in D Minor, Op.15 - II. Vivace - Animando – Largamento

Augustin Hadelich, violin / WDR Symphonie Orchestra / Christian Măcelaru, conductor

Tarrega - Recuerdos de la Alhambra (Arranged by Ricci)

Augustin Hadelich, violin

Recuerdos

Warner Classics

Photo credit: Suxiao Yang

Episode 56: Richard Markson on teaching tone and sound

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Celebrating our education-themed September 2022 magazine, online editor Davina Shum chats to pedagogue and cellist Richard Markson about how to teach the concept of sound and tone.

Richard is a former student of cello greats Paul Tortelier and Pierre Fournier, and holds a senior fellowship at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London. He speaks about the importance of singing, organic movement, and listening to a range of music – not just string players! – in an effort to communicate tricky concepts across to students.

Find our September 2022 magazine here

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Episode #55: Time For Three on triple concertos

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 03:20:23 +0100

Comprising violinists Nick Kendall and Charles Yang, and double bassist Ranaan Meyer, Time For Three joins online editor Davina Shum for a conversation about triple concertos. How does the group maintain the synergy of a chamber ensemble against the backdrop of a symphonic orchestra?

In light of commissioned works by Pulitzer-winning composers Kevin Puts and Jennifer Higdon, Nick, Charles and Ranaan share their approaches towards working together, as well as remotely during the pandemic, plus the boys share their favourite string techniques implemented on their new album Letters for the Future.

Time For Three will perform Kevin Puts’s Contact on 28 July with the Philadelphia Orchestra and Erina Yashima at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. More information can be found here

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II: Codes (Scherzo)

Contact – Kevin Puts

Letters for the Future

Time For Three / Philadelphia Orchestra / Xian Zhang

Deutsche Grammophon

Episode 54: Timothy Chooi on playing Strads

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Most people are considered lucky if they get to play a Strad in their lifetime. Violinist Timothy Chooi is lucky enough to have been granted use of two Stradivari instruments within a decade! In 2015 he was loaned the 1717 ‘Windsor-Weinstein’ Stradivari from the Canada Council for the Arts, which he played up until this year, when he was loaned the 1709 ‘Engelman’ Strad from the Nippon Foundation.

Using various analogies, Timothy speaks about his experiences playing these fine instruments, including how despite their mystical status, it’s not always smooth sailing. He also shares how playing old instruments informs his playing of modern instruments and vice versa.

Timothy will appear in recital with pianist Julien Quentin at the Verbier Festival on 28 July. More information can be found here: https://www.verbierfestival.com/show/mainstage-2022-07-28-1600/

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Sunshine on Tashkurgan

Chen Gang (1935-)

Timothy Chooi, violin / Michelle Cann, piano

Photo credit: Den Sweeney

Episode 53: David Finckel and Wu Han on creating inspiration

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Partners in life and in music David Finckel and Wu Han speak about chamber music and sharing of musical experiences as they celebrate 20 years of Music@Menlo Chamber Music Festival and Institute, of which they are artistic directors. With artistic integrity at the fore, they speak about inspiring the next generation of musical pioneers with the mentality that nothing is impossible.

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Read about Menlo alumna Gloria Chien here: https://www.thestrad.com/news/husband-and-wife-duo-receive-2021-cms-award-for-extraordinary-service-to-chamber-music/13919.article

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Chopin: Cello Sonata in G minor op.65

III: Largo

David Finckel, cello / WuHan, piano

Photo credit: Lisa-Marie Mazzucco

Episode 52: Carolin Widmann on 1000 years of violin repertoire

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Violinist Carolin Widmann covers 1000 years of repertoire in her latest album, L’Aurore, including works by Hildegard von Bingen, J.S. Bach, Ysaye, Enescu and George Benjamin. She speaks to online editor Davina Shum about what all these pieces have in common, including finding freedom within the form with such diversity of pieces. Carolin speaks about the importance of singing in achieving free, musical communication, and how the different ways composers use musical notation can achieve surprisingly similar results.

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J.S. Bach: Partita no.2 in D minor BWV 1004 - Allemanda

L’Aurore

Carolin Widmann, violin

ECM 2709

Photo credit: Lennard Rühle / ECM Records

Episode #51: John-Henry Crawford on Latin American music

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 09:30:00 +0100

American cellist John-Henry Crawford chats to online editor and fellow cellist Davina Shum about Latin American music. John-Henry, or JH has recently released an album called Corazón, featuring music by Villa Lobos, Piazzolla, Ponce, Gismonti and more. He spoke about how his passion for Latin American music was ignited, how JH’s experience learning the Spanish language has informed the way he approaches these pieces musically, as well as how cellists need to adapt when playing with a classical guitarist.

Here's JH and JiJi's video performance of Água e Vinho: https://www.thestrad.com/video/new-video-john-henry-crawford-and-jiji-perform-agua-e-vinho/15040.article

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Manuel Ponce - Estrellita
Arranged by JIJI / Jascha Heifetz

Carlos Guastavino (1912-2000) – Pampamapa

John-Henry Crawford, cello / Victor Santiago Asuncion, piano / JIJI, guitar

Corazón

Orchid Classics ORC100198

Photo credit: Lindsay Adler

Episode 50: Itamar Zorman on violin globetrotting

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 09:30:00 +0100

It's our 50th episode! Thank you to everyone who's tuned in so far!

Our latest episode features violinist Itamar Zorman. He speaks about a musical odyssey that explores repertoire from Israel, Sudan, New Zealand, Mexico and many more countries, plus how playing unknown global repertoire informs his playing of classic violin repertoire.

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Wanderings – Moshe Zorman

Violin Odyssey

Itamar Zorman, violin / Ieva Jokubaviciute, piano

First Hand Records FHR119

Photo credit: Jamie Jung

Episode 49: Zina Schiff and Avlana Eisenberg on mother and daughter collaboration

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Violin and conductor duo of Zina Schiff and Avlana Eisenberg speak to online editor Davina Shum about their musical and familial collaboration. They speak about their new album with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra comprising the music of American composer William Grant Still.

What’s it like for Zina, to be conducted by her daughter? What was it like for Avlana, listening to her mother practise throughout her childhood? The duo speak about the power of familial connection in music making, plus Zina provides a little introduction to William Grant Still, to those who are unfamiliar.

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Summerland

Violin Suite II: Mother and Child

William Grant Still

Zina Schiff, violin / Avlana Eisenberg, conductor / Royal Scottish National Orchestra

Naxos

Episode 48: Noah Bendix-Balgley on performing under pressure as a concertmaster

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 09:30:00 +0100

First concertmaster of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra Noah Bendix-Balgley shares his audition process for winning the top job, as well as his personal experiences playing some of the most challenging, exposed, notorious, yet beautiful concertmaster solos in orchestral repertoire. He shares advice for violinists going for concertmaster auditions, as well as why he believes a concertmaster job is a truly fulfilling role.

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Romance for violin and piano op.23

Amy Beach

Noah Bendix-Balgley, violin / Ohad Ben-Ari, piano

Photo credit: Nikolaj Lund

Episode 47: Korinthia Klein on basic instrument maintenance

Thu, 26 May 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Luthier Korinthia Klein offers tips to players on keeping instruments in good shape as the seasons change. She illustrates the importance of keeping a level-headed, informed approach when dealing with minor instrument and bow ailments, in an aim to empower players to become responsible caretakers for their instruments.

Check out Korinthia’s article Basic Maintenance: Avoiding instrument carnage as featured in our January 2021 issue.

Korinthia’s book My Violin Needs Help!: A Repair Diagnostics Guide for Players and Teachers is available from her website.

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Photo credit: Itzel Avila

Episode #46: Billy Tobenkin on starting the cello at 25

Thu, 19 May 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Cellist Billy Tobenkin shares his thoughts on starting an instrument as an adult. Billy had a career as a writer and copy editor before delving into the world of cello at the age of 25. 15 years later, Billy works professionally as a cello teacher and performer in LA. He shares his experiences of starting the instrument with no musical background, the challenges faced by adult beginners, as well as words of advice to avoid discouragement.

Check out Billy’s website at adultcello.com

Sergei Rachmaninov – Cello Sonata in G minor op.19

III Andante

Billy Tobenkin, cello / Tae Yeon Lim, piano

Episode 45: The New Zealand String Quartet on its 35th anniversary

Thu, 12 May 2022 09:30:00 +0100

The New Zealand String Quartet celebrate its 35th anniversary in 2022. We hear from founding member Gillian Ansell about the quartet’s early days in 1987, first violinist Helene Pohl and cellist Rolf Gjelsten about keeping quartet and married life separate, and newest member Monique Lapins’s philosophies for including all voices equally in a professional quartet.

Watch the NZSQ perform works by New Zealand composers here: https://www.nzsq.org.nz/watch

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Douglas Lilburn, String Quartet in E minor

I – Andante

II - Allegretto

Naxos Classical (2015)

Producer: Norbert Kraft & Bonnie Silver, Engineer: Norbert Kraft

Photo credit: Bruce Foster

Episode 44: Amit Peled on playing in cello choirs

Thu, 05 May 2022 09:30:00 +0100

What do NBA basketball and cello choir have in common? Cellist and basketball enthusiast Amit Peled shares the educational and professional benefits of playing in an ensemble where all members play the same instrument, as demonstrated in his Mount Vernon Virtuosi CelloGang.

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Johannes Brahms: Symphony no.3 II Andante

Arranged for eight cellos and piano by Konstantin Blagojevic

Amit Peled and the Mount Vernon Virtuosi CelloGang

Solus et Una

CTM Classics

Photo credit: Philip Bermingham

Episode #43: Jan Vogler on music festivals

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Cellist Jan Vogler speaks about the magic of music festivals. As artistic and general director of the Dresden Music Festival, he shares how early memories of the Marlboro Music Festival are linked to special moments in his life, how he hopes to create an environment where ideas, culture and friendships are cultivated, as well as why concert programmers should look to the youth of today when exploring diversification of musical genres.

The 45th Dresden Music Festival Magic takes place from 11 May until 10 June. More information can be found here.

Jan’s new album Pop Songs will be released 6 May on Sony Classical.

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Air ‘When I am Laid in Earth (Dido’s Lament)’

From Dido and Aeneas

Henry Purcell

‘Der Hölle Rache kocht in meinem Herzen’

From The Magic Flute K.620

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Pop Songs

Jan Vogler, cello, / BBC Philharmonic Orchestra / Omer Meir Wellber

Sony Classical

Photo credit: Marco Grob

Episode #42: Kerenza Peacock on environmental awareness and musical connection

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 09:30:00 +0100

In a week where we explore how musicians are affected by environmental issues, violinist Kerenza Peacock speaks about how musicians share similar qualities to trees – including the ability to communicate widely without words and the benefits of a constructive, collaborative community. Using connection through music, Kerenza was recently responsible for coordinating a video of 94 violinists from 29 countries playing in harmony and in solidarity with sheltering Ukrainians in the outbreak of the war.

Arboretum Suite for solo violin and strings

III - The Vanishing Mahogany of the Amazon

Air – Oliver Davis

Kerenza Peacock, violin / Royal Philharmonic Orchestra / Paul Bateman, conductor

Signum Records

Trad. Ukrainian: Verbovaya Doschechka

Violinists Support Ukraine

http://violinistssupportukraine.com/

Photo credit: Benjamin Ealovega

Episode #41: Ani Aznavoorian on Armenian music

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Cellist Ani Aznavoorian shares the significance of playing music that celebrates and commemorates her Armenian culture. As well as continuing her cultural heritage through music, Ani also speaks about doing so in another way, as the proud player of a cello crafted by her father Peter Aznavoorian.

On 15 May 2022, the Music Institute of Chicago Presents The Aznavoorian Duo in Gems from Armenia - a concert celebrating the sounds of their ancestors through a panoramic survey of Armenian classical music. The concert will be held at Nichols Concert Hall, Evanston, IL at 3pm CT. More information can be found here.

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Chinar Es – Komitas Vartabed (1869-1935)

Ani Aznavoorian, cello / Marta Aznavoorian, piano

Gems of Armenia

Cedille Records

CDR 90000 209

Photo credit: Lisa-Marie Mazzucco

Episode 40: Naomi Yandell on teaching beginner bow holds

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 09:30:00 +0100

Cambridge-based cellist, teacher, music consultant, author and editor Naomi Yandell has written extensively on aspects of string teaching, including Trinity sightreading books, Take your bow and Top Banana: 20 performance pieces with attitude for young string players with Celia Cobb and numerous Opinion pieces for The Strad, including her latest article in the April 2022 issue.

She chats to fellow cellist and teacher Davina Shum about beginner bow hold strategies – a concept that many teachers profess to have a rather hit-and-miss success rate with students. Naomi highlights the importance of ‘feel’, using relatable analogies, tailoring one’s method to the student, as well as advocating the use of short bows for children.

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Some of Naomi's previous Opinion pieces:

https://www.thestrad.com/debate/opinion-reset-refresh-restore/14593.article

https://www.thestrad.com/playing-hub/opinion-the-long-and-short-of-it/10498.article

https://www.thestrad.com/debate/opinion-make-em-laugh/13436.article

https://www.thestrad.com/playing-hub/sightreading-is-a-skill-that-should-be-taught-early/7050.article

https://www.thestrad.com/debate/opinion-a-light-touch/11046.article

Episode 39: Kronos Quartet’s David Harrington on musical activism

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 08:09:55 +0100

The Kronos Quartet are no strangers to musical activism, using their creative collaborative powers to speak out against injustices of the world, shine a light on forgotten voices and spread the message of peace and hope through their music-making.

Founding violinist David Harrington speaks about the work Mỹ Lai by Jonathan Berger, a work inspired by the previously unspoken story of American soldier Hugh Thompson who saved numerous civilian lives during the 1968 massacre in Vietnam. In light of recent global events, David speaks about the power musicians hold and must harness to share critical messages, as well as how nearly 50 years of the Kronos Quartet have shaped his life.

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Mỹ Lai Lullaby

Mỹ Lai – Music by Jonathan Berger and Libretto by Harriet Scott Chessman

Kronos Quartet / Vân-ÁnhVõ / Rinde Eckert

Smithsonian Folkways Recordings

Photo courtesy of Kronos Performing Arts Association

Episode 38: Eldbjørg Hemsing on Norwegian music

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 08:30:00 +0000

Norwegian violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing presents our April 2022 Masterclass on Grieg’s Violin Sonata no.2. She chats to online editor Davina Shum about the characteristics and idiosyncrasies of traditional Norwegian music, including the distinctive Hardanger fiddle, as well as the importance of active performing and conversation to keep folk traditions alive.

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Grieg - Violin Sonata no.2 in G major op. 13

III Allegretto animato

Eldbjørg Hemsing, violin / Simon Trpčeski, piano

Grieg: The Violin Sonatas

BIS Records BIS-2456 SACD

Borgström – Violin Concerto in G major op.25

II Adagio

Eldbjørg Hemsing, violin / Vienna Symphony / Olari Elts

Borgström & Shostakovich: Violin Concertos

BIS Records BIS-2366 SACD

Photo credit: Nikolai Lund

Episode 37: Paris Andrew from Women in Lutherie

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 08:30:00 +0000

Women in Lutherie aims to create a safe, open space for women and female-identifying luthiers to empower women and girls at the bench worldwide. Founded by Jennifer Creadick and Jeemin Kim during the pandemic as a series of online Zoom chats, the group has since expanded to continue making space and support for women in the industry. Florence-based luthier Paris Andrew spoke to online editor Davina Shum about the shared experiences of female luthiers that drives the motivation for the group, as well as why the community is necessary and the group’s plans for the future.

Website: https://www.womeninlutherie.org/

Instagram @womeninlutherie

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Episode 36: Coco Tomita on forging a solo career during the pandemic

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Coco Tomita is a rising star in the violin world. A former semi-finalist in the BBC Young Musician competition in 2020, she is currently studying at the University for Music Hanns Eisler in Berlin. Having recently released her debut album Origins on Orchid Classics, she reminisces about performing in 2020 with the pandemic just around the corner, as well as the challenges she faced while forging a solo career over the last two years.

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Lili Boulanger: Two pieces for violin and piano

I - Nocturne

Francis Poulenc: Sonata for violin and piano

I – Allegro con fuoco

Coco Tomita, violin / Simon Callaghan, piano

Origins

Orchid Classics ORC100194

Episode 35: Philippe Quint on new ways to programme music

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Violinist Philippe Quint speaks to online editor Davina Shum about new ways of programming and presenting music, through exploration of the music of Charlie Chaplin and Astor Piazzolla. He speaks about how his shows employ multimedia and narration to enhance story telling through music.

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Smile: Theme from ‘Modern Times’

Charlie Chaplin’s Smile: Song Arrangements for Violin & Piano

Philippe Quint, Joshua Bell, violins / Marta Aznavoorian, piano

Warner Classics 2-585381

Photo credit: John Gress

Episode 34: Maria Ioudenitch on her competition success

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Winner of both the Tibor Varga and Joseph Joachim International Violin Competitions in 2021, violinist Maria Ioudenitch speaks to online editor Davina Shum about her recent competition success. Maria shares how she prepares to keep match-fit for competition performances, both musically and mentally. She shares how she deals with performance nerves, offering advice to young musicians starting out on dealing with the pressures of competing. Plus we hear about her exciting plans and ambitions for the future.
Maria was born in Russia, moving to Kansas City at the age of three. She studied at the International Center for Music at Park University, in Kansas City with Ben Sayevich, the Curtis Institute of Music with Pamela Frank and Shmuel Ashkenasi and the New England Conservatory with Miriam Fried.

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Ysaÿe: Sonata no.5 for Solo Violin in G major

II Danse rustique

Maria Ioudenitch, violin

Photo credit: Jenny Chou

Episode 33: Louise Lansdown and Njabulo Nxumalo on the Arco project

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Founder of the Arco Project Louise Lansdown and double bass student Njabulo Nxumalo speak to online editor Davina Shum about the long-distance teaching partnership between Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and the Morris Isaacson Centre for Music in Soweto, South Africa. Louise shares her vision for the project, as well as the challenges and importance of the scheme, while 21-year-old Njabulo shares his first-hand experiences of growing up with the project, from starting on the violin, to winning competitions and studying double bass at Stellenbosch University.

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Episode 32: Rachel Barton Pine and Billy Childs on a new violin concerto

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Violinist Rachel Barton Pine and composer Billy Childs speak about working together in collaboration in the lead-up to the premiere performance of Billy’s Violin Concerto no.2, which will be performed on 12 February with the Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra and Michael Butterman. Listen to Billy’s inspiration for the piece, his way of writing for strings as a pianist, Rachel’s approach to working with a living composer and her love of exploring sonority.

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Rachel Barton Pine performs Prelude and Allegro from Billy Childs’ Four Portraits: https://youtu.be/_kUBecSkJ1Q?t=227

Incident on Lapenteur Avenue

Blues Dialogues: Music by Black Composers

Rachel Barton Pine, violin / Matthew Hagle, piano

Cedille Records

CDR 90000 182

Photo credit for Rachel Barton Pine: Lisa-Marie Mazzucco

Episode 31: Nils Mönkemeyer on Mozart Sinfonia Concertante

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Violist Nils Mönkemeyer speaks about Mozart's Sinfonia Concertante - including his collaboration with long-time friend and musical colleague Julia Fischer and the blend of solo and chamber roles in the piece. Nils also shares his thoughts on playing the viola part scordatura, as well as the time he had the chance to play Mozart's viola!

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https://tickets.lpo.org.uk/events/sinfonia-concertante

https://www.thestrad.com/reviews/nils-m%C3%B6nkemeyer-vivaldi-rolla-tartini-paganini-sciarrino/12643.article

Paganini: Sonata for gran viola & orchestra in C minor, MS 70

Vivaldi - Paganini - Tartini

Nils Mönkemeyer, viola / L'arte del mondo /Werner Ehrhardt

Sony 19439730032

Photo credit: Irène Zandel

Episode 30: Sean Lee on performing Paganini Caprices

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Violinist Sean Lee chats to online editor Davina Shum about performing all 24 Paganini Caprices... in one concert! Listen to how he has prepared for such a mammoth undertaking, including how the task is like training for a marathon; Sean's personal challenges with the Caprices, and performing them with pianist Peter Dugan.

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Paganini X Schumann

Caprice no.21

Sean Lee, violin / Peter Dugan, piano

Episode 29: Julia Fischer on Mozart Violin Concertos

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 09:30:00 +0000

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Violinist Julia Fischer speaks to online editor Davina Shum about the Mozart Violin Concertos. Find out which one she performed first, as well as her favourite, plus her approaches to teaching the works and performing without a conductor. Julia also speaks about the joy of performing chamber works... as a pianist!

Find out more about Julia's Mozart performances with the LPO:

https://www.lpo.org.uk/what-s-on/julia-fischer-artist-in-residence.html

Violin Concerto no.5 in A major, K219 I Allegro aperto - Adagio - Allegro aperto

Julia Fischer - The Mozart Violin Concertos

Julia Fischer, violin / Netherlands Chamber Orchestra / Yakov Kreizberg, conductor

Pentatone PTC 5186 453

Photo credit: Uwe Arens

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Episode 28: Alexandra Conunova on losing her Guadagnini violin

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 09:30:00 +0000

In this exclusive interview with The Strad, violinist Alexandra Conunova shares the traumatic and harrowing story of when her 1785 Guadagnini violin was seized by Moldovan customs officials at Chisinau airport. Hear in her own words what happened on that day, the lengths she went to in order to get her violin back, and what she has learned from the experience.

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Episode 27: Kian Soltani on Shostakovich Cello Concerto no.1

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Kian Soltani shares his thoughts on Shostakovich’s epic Cello Concerto no.1 in conversation with online editor Davina Shum. He speaks about his initial inspiration for working on the piece, unexpected challenges that arise when performing, as well as why cellists need to regard themselves as athletes, especially during the holiday season.

Kian’s LPO concert: https://tickets.lpo.org.uk/events/119589

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Cello Unlimited

Kian Soltani, cello

Deutsche Gramophone 4860518

Photo credit: Juventino Mateo

Episode 26: Alun Thomas on Alexander Technique

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 09:30:00 +0000

Alun Thomas is a UK-based violinist, writer and Alexander Technique specialist. Alongside his feature Thoughts That Count in the January 2022 issue of The Strad, he spoke with online editor Davina Shum about his first encounter with Alexander Technique, as well as the basic, fundamental principles that string players can employ, including physical awareness, lengthening, ease and mindfulness.

Find out more about Alun’s work here: www.violinlessons.live

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Episode 25: Leia Zhu on performance and outreach

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 09:00:00 +0000

At only 15 years of age, violinist Leia Zhu began her role as artist in residence with the London Mozart Players in October 2021. She speaks with online editor Davina Shum about her life balancing travelling, performance and school work, as well as her work with LMP's education and community outreach programmes to bring classical music to a wider audience.

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Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto in D major op.34

Leia Zhu, violin / London Mozart Players

Photo credit: Zhutek

Episode 24: Caroline Pether on the joy of playing in chamber orchestras

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Violinist Caroline Pether is the leader of Manchester Camerata and teaches at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. She speaks with online editor Davina Shum about the joy of playing in chamber orchestras – including how leading an ensemble is much like being a film director, allowing individual musicians to exercise freedom of expression within a clear overall vision, as well as Caroline’s favourite pieces to lead and direct from the violin.

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Songs of Solitude no.1

Caroline Pether, violin

UNTOLD: Caroline

Episode 23: Pablo Ferrández on Classical cello concertos

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Cellist Pablo Ferrández speaks to fellow cellist Davina Shum about Classical cello concertos ahead of his European tour with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields. He speaks about the Classical style, his instrument set up, choosing musical editions, as well as travelling with a cello during the time of Covid.

Find out more about Pablo’s London and European performances in early December.

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Haydn Cello Concerto no.1 in C major I: Moderato
Pablo Ferrández, cello / Spanish Radio Television Orchestra / Pablo González, conductor

Photo credit: Igor Studio

Episode 22: Chad Hoopes on interdisciplinary teaching and learning

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Violinist Chad Hoopes chats to online editor Davina Shum about his approaches to teaching and learning as professor of practice in violin at Meadows School of Arts, Southern Methodist University. He speaks about teaching students who major in various disciplines in an environment that encourages a broad, liberal arts education.

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Mendelssohn/Adams Violin Concertos

Chad Hoopes, vln / MDR Leipzig Radio Symphony Orchestra / Kristjan Järvi

Naïve 5368

Photo credit Jiyang Chen

Episode 21: Leon Bosch on Bottesini

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Double bassist Leon Bosch speaks with online editor Davina Shum about the life and works of Giovanni Bottesini, in the year celebrating the bicentenary of his birth. Revered in bass circles as a revolutionary, Bottesini was also a renowned performer, composer and conductor in his day.
Leon will be performing works by Bottesini on 7 December at Wigmore Hall, as well as at ‘Bottesini Day’ at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance on 17 December.

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Fantasie Sonnambula
The Virtuoso Double Bass: Giovanni Bottesini, volume 1
Leon Bosch, double bass / Sung Suk Kang, piano
Meridian
CDE 84544

Photo credit: Juno Snowdon. Art direction: Adam Hypki

Episode 20: Steven Isserlis on consulting musical editions and manuscripts

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Following publication of his new book The Bach Cello Suites: A Companion, cellist Steven Isserlis spoke to online editor Davina Shum about consulting various musical sources, from different editions to manuscripts. Steven also speaks about making bowing and fingering suggestions for the new Henle edition of the Dvořák cello concerto, and how musicians need to make an informed choice for their preferred interpretation.

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Sarabande from Cello Suite no.5 in C minor BWV1011

Steven Isserlis, cello

Johann Sebastian Bach: The Cello Suites

Hyperion CDA67541/2

Photo credit: Jean Baptiste Millot

Episode 19: Sheku and Isata Kanneh-Mason on sibling collaboration

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Sibling duo Sheku and Isata Kanneh-Mason chat to online editor Davina Shum about their new collaborative album Muse, featuring the works of Barber and Rachmaninov. They also spoke about why they chose to record this repertoire, how Isata deals with difficult piano parts, as well as how they keep professional and family life separate.

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Rachmaninov: Cello Sonata in G minor op.19 III Andante

Muse: Sheku Kanneh-Mason, cello / Isata Kanneh-Mason, piano

Decca Classics

Episode 18: Rakhi Singh on creativity

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0100

Violinist and music director of Manchester Collective Rakhi Singh speaks about the challenges of creative processes and finding freedom within form, as well as not being discouraged by temporary setbacks and how landscape can influence sound.

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https://manchestercollective.co.uk/automata

https://manchestercollective.co.uk/metal

‘Khuda’i’ from Quarry

Rakhi Singh

Bedroom Community Records

Episode 17: Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider on competitions

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0100

Violinist and president of the Carl Nielsen International Competition Nikolaj Szeps Znaider speaks about his experience of competitions, including what he wishes he knew when he was a contestant, advice to young musicians entering competitions, and his wish to create a positive competition environment, leading to the formation of Espansiva! – an off-stage platform for competition contestants to meet fellow musicians and industry experts in an inspiring setting.

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Apply here by 30 October: http://carlnielsencompetition.com/

Violin concerto, op.33: Prelude. Largo – Allegro cavallerésco

Nielsen: The Symphonies and Concertos (Live)

Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider, vln / New York Philharmonic / Alan Gilbert

Da Capo 6.200003

Photo credit: Lars Gundersen

Episode 16: Ayanna Witter-Johnson on playing and singing

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0100

Classical/R&B fusion cellist and vocalist Ayanna Witter-Johnson speaks about her musical journey, tips on song writing using a string instrument, and the logistics of playing and singing simultaneously.

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Flow My Tears – John Dowland

Arranged by John Aram, featuring Ayanna Witter-Johnson (cello and vocals)

Episode 15: Jack Liebeck on Ysaÿe Sonatas

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0100

Violinist Jack Liebeck took on a monumental lockdown project – while others were making sourdough or learning new languages, he decided to record all six solo violin sonatas by Ysaÿe. He speaks about his journey to complete this project, the idiomatic nature of Ysaÿe's writing, and which solo sonata he connected to the most.

Jack's new recording is released on 8 October 2021 on Orchid Classics.

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SIX SONATAS FOR SOLO VIOLIN, OP.27
Eugène Ysaÿe (1858-1931)
Sonata No.5 in G major
Dedicated to Matthieu Crickboom
14. L’Aurore. Lento assai
Jack Liebeck, violin

Orchid Classics ORC100179

Episode 14: Nicolas Altstaedt on the Lutosławski Cello Concerto

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 09:00:00 +0100

Cellist Nicolas Altstaedt speaks to online editor Davina Shum about the Lutosławski cello concerto – a piece which is quickly becoming performed more and more since Rostropovich’s premiere in 1970. Nicolas talks about his approach to learning the complexity of the score, tricky technical passages and the liberation of playing a contemporary work.

Nicolas performs this work on 1 October with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, which will be available to watch free for 48 hours from 13 November on Marquee TV.

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I. Fujarka (Piccolo) Lutosławski: Little Suite (Mala suita)
Shostakovich; Weinberg; Lutoslawski: Cello Concertos
Nicolas Altstaedt, cello / Michal Nesterowicz, conductor / Deutsches Symfonie-Orchester Berlin
Channel Classics CCS38116

Photo credit: Marco Borggreve

Episode 13: Dr. Renée-Paule Gauthier on dealing with performance anxiety

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 09:00:00 +0100

Dr. Renée-Paule Gauthier is a violinist and high-performance coach for musicians. In this episode about performance anxiety and nerves, she spoke with online editor Davina Shum about self-compassion, assessment vs judgement when playing and dealing with inner battles when the stakes are so high.

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Renée's website and podcast: www.mindoverfinger.com

Episode 12: Maxim Vengerov on Ravel

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 09:18:22 +0100

Ahead of his performance on 23 September at the InClassica International Music Festival in Dubai, violinist Maxim Vengerov chats to online editor Davina Shum about three different pieces of violin repertoire: Tzigane by Ravel, Seascapes by Alexey Shor and Meditation by Massenet.

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Lalo: Symphonie Espagnole; Saint-Saens: Violin Concerto; Ravel: Tzigane

Maxim Vengerov, vln / Antonio Pappano, conductor / Philharmonia Orchestra

Warner Classics B019GRSR7A

Photo credit: B. Ealovega

Episode 11: Jesus Rodolfo‘s 1696 ‘Spanish Court‘ Stradivari viola replica

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 08:30:00 +0100

Violist Jesus Rodolfo chats to online editor Davina Shum about his distinctive instrument – a copy of the 1696 ‘Spanish Court’ Stradivari. Listen to him speak about seeing the original instrument for the first time as a child, intricate details of the instrument, and how playing a modern instrument can benefit one’s playing.

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Excerpt of III. Andante from Cello Sonata in G minor by Rachmaninov used with permission from Jesus Rodolfo

Episode 10: Joshua Bell on Piazzolla

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 08:30:00 +0100

Violinist Joshua Bell chats to online editor Davina Shum about the music of Astor Piazzolla – 2021 being the centenary of the composer’s birth. Ahead of his performance of The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires at the BBC Proms with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, Joshua spoke about his experiences playing the music of Piazzolla, taking the music seriously and unexpected string techniques.

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Joshua Bell’s Seasons – Vivaldi vs Piazzolla: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000z2j0

Excerpt of 'Oblivion' by Astor Piazzolla used with permission from Joshua Bell.

Joshua Bell, violin

Carel Kraayenhof, bandoneon

Edgar Meyer, double bass

Sony Classical 88697 52716 2

Photo credit: Phil Knott

Episode 09: Anne Akiko Meyers on new commissions

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 08:30:00 +0100

Violinist Anne Akiko Meyers speaks about commissioning works and cadenzas, pairing the old with the new and how she works closely with composers. Ahead of her premiere performance of 'Fandango' by Arturo Marquez, she speaks about the uniqueness of mariachi style and technique.

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Excerpt of 'Fantasia' by Rautavaara used with permission from Anne Akiko Meyers

Photo credit: David Zentz

Episode 08: Christian Li's life as a young violinist

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 08:30:00 +0100

Ahead of his album release ‘The Four Seasons,’ 13-year-old violinist Christian Li speaks with online editor Davina Shum about his life as a young musician: his practice routine, warm-up exercises, pre-performance routines, as well as what he likes to get up to when he’s not playing the violin.

Christian is a student of Dr Robin Wilson, head of violin at the Australian National Academy of Music.

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Excerpt of Concerto No.4 in F minor RV 297 ‘Winter’ I. Allegro non molto used with permission from Christian Li and Decca Classics

Christian Li violin

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

Howard Penny cello

Donald Nicolson harpsichord

Nicholas Pollock lute

Photo credit: Albert Comper

Episode 07: Hannah Roberts on studies and etudes

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 08:30:00 +0100

This episode features Hannah Roberts - principal cellist of Manchester Camerata and professor of cello at Royal Northern College of Music and Royal Academy of Music. She speaks to online editor (and fellow cellist) Davina Shum about incorporating studies and etudes in playing and teaching.

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Live recording of Frank Bridge Sonata for cello and piano used with permission from Hannah Roberts.

Hannah Roberts, cello

Simon Parkin, piano

Episode 06: Johannes Moser on the Elgar Cello Concerto

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 08:30:00 +0100

Cellist Johannes Moser chats to online editor Davina Shum about the emotional rollercoaster that is the Elgar Cello Concerto, as well as playing with quality projection and an Olympian setup ahead of his performance at the BBC Proms on 9 August.

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Excerpt of Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: I. Adagio - Moderato used with permission from Johannes Moser and PENTATONE.

Elgar and Tchaikovsky

Artist: Johannes Moser

Conductor: Andrew Manze

Orchestra: L'Orchestre de la Suisse Romande

PTC 5186570

Photo credit: Manfred Esser-Haenssler Classic

Episode 05: Hsin-Yun Huang's philosophies on playing and teaching

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 08:30:00 +0100

Hsin-Yun Huang is a violist on the faculty of the Juilliard School and Curtis Institute of Music. In conversation with The Strad's online editor Davina Shum, she shares her philosophies that help inform her playing and teaching.

Hsin-Yun has written an article about the parallels between Chinese calligraphy and string playing, which features in our August 2021 issue. Read it here: https://bit.ly/3BMckep

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Photo credit: Raymond Huang

Episode 04: Francesca Dego on playing 'Il Cannone'

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 08:30:00 +0100

Violinist and The Strad March 2021 cover star Francesca Dego speaks to Davina Shum about her experiences of playing Paganini's old violin: the Guarneri 'del Gesù' 'Il Cannone'.

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Photo credit: Patrick Allen

Episode 03: Benjamin Baker on performing solo Bach

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 08:30:00 +0100

Violinist Benjamin Baker speaks about performing all six sonatas and partitas by Bach, as well as how playing solo Bach can inform his playing of contemporary works, and vice versa.

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Photo credit: Kaupo Kikkas

Episode 02: Maja Bugge’s five tips for teaching improvisation

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:45:00 +0100

Cellist Maja Bugge shares her top five tips for teaching improvisation and composition to string players.

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'Shelter' by Maja Bugge used with permission from the artist.

majabugge.com

Episode 01: Lisa Batiashvili on the Sibelius Violin Concerto

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 11:45:00 +0100

Welcome to the very first episode of The Strad podcast. Violinist Lisa Batiashvili speaks to online editor of The Strad Davina Shum ahead of her performance of the Sibelius violin concerto for Audi Summer Concerts. Listen to hear Lisa’s personal insights on the piece, advice for violinists new to the piece and what it’s like to perform during a pandemic.

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Excerpt of Sibelius violin concerto in D minor, first movement used with permission from Lisa Batiashvili.

Tchaikovsky/Sibelius

Lisa Batiashvili
Staatskapelle Berlin
Daniel Barenboim

UPC: 00028947960386

Photo: Chris Singer