The proposed collection for the ensemble of violoncellists is compiled by the composer N. Karsh. It contains the sorts of arrangements by Natalia Karsh made from original texts, random versions and also the compositions by Natalia Karsh herself. All this music broadens the students' outlook, mastering their music taste.
The facture of these pieces may be suitable for any cast of musicians — from 2–3 persons to 12–16 ones. Usually the teacher selects the pupils according to the voices. The first voices are to be given to the pupils of the 6–7th grades (advanced level), whom the upper position is known to, who have fine sound and good intonation. As to the second voices, less complicated by the technique — they are to be played by the pupils of 4–5th grades.
It's important to master the voices, phrases passages from voice to voice. Ensemble playing improves ear experiences. Besides, children enjoy executing together. Of course they should be taught to respect each other.
Teacher may work with homogeneous group of voices or with some representatives of different voices for to attain rhythm and precise intoning. Strikes and fingering are to be chosen according to the cast, taking into consideration sound and technique aspects. Open strings may be used if the ensemble is tuned beforehand. It ought to be mentioned once more, that strikes and fingering are individual devices. Thus many variants are possible.
Surely, the strikes are to be verified between the voices. Ensemble skills, including rhythmical ones should be trained — mutual entrances and unstringings.
The teacher, starting to work with ensemble must understand how difficult and long this work may be, involving many stages. However it may bring joy to the children and the conductor himself.
Good luck to everybody!
Elena Demova
CONTENTS:
G. Sviridov. FROM THE MUSIC TO THE STORY “BLIZZARD” BY A. S. PUSHKIN
Troika (Music text example)
Romance
Waltz
J. S. Bach. MINUET. From the Part-book of Anna Magdalena Bach
J. S. Bach. SARABAND. From the French Suite D minor
J. S. Bach. ARIA. From the French Suite C minor
G. Donizetti. THE FINAL CHORUS. From the opera “L'Elisir d'amore” (Music text example)
G. Verdi. CHORUS. From the opera “Rigoletto”