ONE THE INSTRUMENTS OF THE ORCHESTRACHAPTER ONE me STRINGED INSTRUMENTS inovoHtour the comparatively brief history of orchestration the | string group—violins, violas, ‘cellos, and double-basses—has maintained its position as dominant element of the symphony orchestra’ Countless scores from all periods bear evidence that their composers regarded woodwind and brass rather as accessories and were hesitant to entrust much of their essential music: stringed instruments ‘Such an attitude is partly justifiable because of the superiority of the stri virtually any kind of music. They have a greater dynamic range than wind instruments and far more expressive capacity. The ton of the string group is fairly homogeneous from top to bottom, varia~ tions in the different registers being much more subt Ac the same time, stringed instrum ing different kinds of sound. As string tone is rich in overtones all is practical. One does not tire of hear- ing string tone as soon as one tires of wind tone; in fact, there exists a sizable literature of compositions written for string orchestra without wind instruments. The string section of a typical symphony orchestra usually consists of sixteen first violins, fourteen second violins, twelve violas, ten violoncellos, and eight double-basses. Variations in these proportions may be found, reflecting the predilections of individual conductors, or perhaps determined by some such circumstance as the size of the con- material to any but in so many important respects. Strings are tireless and can play 1¢ color le than in the winds. are the most versatile in produc. manner of close and open spacing cert stage. ,INSTRUMENTS TUNING ‘The four strings of cach of these instruments are tuned as follows. viol ile ‘ello doxtiebas Fig. 1 Inthe case of the double-bass the actual sound isan octave lower than the written notes. The pitch of a vibrating string can be expressed in terms of the frequency, or rapidity, of its vibrations. For instance, the upper string of the viola sounds the A which in present-day tuning has a frequency of 440 vibrations per second. A stretched string can be varied in pitch by varying the tension, Stringed instruments are tuned by turning the tuning pegs to which the strings are attached. Tightening a string increases the frequency of its vibration; hence raises its pitch. The weight of the string has an important influence on the frequency of its vibration. Thus the four strings on the same instrument may be identical in length, but may differ widely in pitch because they are made to differ in weight. Furthermore, by making use of this principle, can be tuned to their various pitches without the necessity of too great a difference in their tensions. The lower-pitched strings are not only thicker, bur they are made still heavier by winding the gut orsteel with fine wire of copper, silver, aluminum, or other metals. Variation in the length of the string produces proportional variation in pitch, A longer string vibrates more slowly than a shorter one, other conditions being equal. It is found, for example, that halving the string length doubles the frequency and raises the pitch an octave. FINGERING The action of the left-hand fingers stopping the string firmly against the fingerboard shortens the sounding length of the string, thereby raising the pitch. STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 5 ogeepoora wesge Fig. 2. Violin m, note that the sounding length of the string, to be set in motion by the bow, is that between the stopping finger and the ‘The remainder of the string will of course be silent, Since halving the string length raises the pitch an octave, the point at which a string is stopped to sound the octave above its open, or un- stopped, pitch will be exactly one-half the distance from nut to bridge. If we wish to raise the pitch another octave we will find the point of stopping one-half the distance from this middle point to the bridge, or three-fourths the total string length from the nut. ‘The principle demonstrated is that fingering a given interval does not imply covering a fixed length of string, but a length that diminishes as the hand moves toward the bridge. When playing a succession of equal intervals on one string, the fingers measure off not equal divisions of string length but proportional divisions. For example, on the viola a major second above an open string means a distance of about 1%4 inches, whereas the same interval in a very high position measures less than % inch. A major second above an open string on the violin meas- tures about 1%4 inches, on the ’cello about 23% inches, and on the bass about 4% inches. Another characteristic of string fingering is that when the hand is in a given position on one string the fingers can readily stop tones on any of the four strings, without the necessity of moving the hand. Each6 INSTRUMENTS position is identified by a number derived from the number of diatonic steps between the first finger and the open string. In string technique, and also in the fing nger, not the thumb, is called first finger. sing of wind instruments, the index sting © fist psiion second puivon chil postion Fig. 4 Detailed description of the fingering systems of the several stringed instruments will be given in succeeding chapters. DOUBLE-STOPS Ieis possible to scop notes on two adjacent strings in such a way that the bow can sound both notes at once. This is called double-stopping. Triple- and quadruple-stops (chords) are also feasible, although it will presently be scen that the simultancous sound of three or four notes cannot be prolonged by the bow DIVIDED STRINGS In the orchestra, double notes are customarily divided between the two players reading from the same desk, The part should be marked divisi, Italian for divided (Fr., divisés; Ger., geteilt), most often ab- breviated to div. The right-hand player at each desk takes the upper note, When the part returns to single notes it should be marked unisoni (Ft, unis; Ger.. nicht geteilt), usually abbreviated unis. If double notes are written, and the composer wishes each player to play all the notes, using double-stops, he writes a precautionary non div, (in German lly Doppelgriff). This indication is used only when there 2 one nove, to prevent dividing. is more d STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 1 A division of a section into more than two parts would be marked div, in 3 (Fr. div. d 3; Ger., dreifach geteilt), necessitating indications in the individual players’ music to show which part each is to play. Sometimes the divided parts are given separate lines in the score, for legibility. If the parts are complex, better results may be obtained by a leggit; Fr., par pupitres; Ger., pultweise), the odd-numbered desks taking the upper part. If only half the members of a section are to play, the part is marked half (It, la metas Fr., la moitié; Ger., die Hiilfte). The players on the left at cach desk will then remain silent until given the indication all (c,, tutti; Fe. tous; Ger., alle). dividing by desks (It, VIBRATO In the playing of stringed instruments the tone is given life and warmth through the use of vibrato of the left hand. This is a combina~ tion of impulses involving the muscles of the hand, wrist, and arm, and its effect at the fingertip is an almost imperceptible oscillation in pitch of the note. The vibrato is employed on all stopped tones except those of short duration and needs no indication for its use. However, there are times when one prefers the peculiar tone quality obtainable only by suppressing the vibrato, in which case the direction senza vibrato should be given. BOWING rishthandfinges 1 8 3 4 pi Peel (fro8) Fig, 6. Violin Bow The bow-stick is of fine, light wood, generally Pernambuco, which is remarkable for its elastic quality. The stick is curved inward toward the hair, and, when the hair is tightened by means of the screw at the heel of the bow, the resulting tension brings into play the resilience of the stick, an important factor in the various bow strokes. The hair is horsehair, although in recent times other materials, such as nylon, have8 INSTRUMENTS been tried, There ate over a hundred hairs in a violin bow. Ie s the habit of string players to rub a specially prepared rosin on the bow hairs to help in securing the right amount of friction on the strings. The bow is held firmly, yet lightly, between the fingers and thumb of the right hand, as shown in Fig. 6. The first to exert varying pressure on the bow-stick, while the little finger is used mainly to balance the bow, according to (The so-called German style of bowing for the double-bass will be described later.) The bow is drawn at right angles to the string, ordinarily at a place about halfway between the bridge and the end of the fingerboard, For a louder and more brilliant tone, and for the normal production of high notes, the bow is played nearer the bridge. For softer tones it is moved nearer to the fingerboard. The hair may be placed flat, so that all the hairs are in contact with the string; but usually the bow is turned on edge, so that only part of the hair is engaged. This enables the player to control the amount of hair being used. For the violin and viola the tilt is away from the player; for the ’cello and bass the opposite is more convenient. The part of the bow near the point is called the upper part of the bow; that nearer the heel, the lower part. When the bow is drawn stare- ing at the lower part and proceeding toward the point, straightening the elbow joint, the stroke is called down-bow. The opposite is up-bow. Both are more clearly expressed by the French tiré (drawn) for down bow, and poussé (pushed) for up-bow. The signs mn (down-bow) and y (up-bow) are in universal use. nger is in a position position on the string, LecaTo If no slurs are marked, each note calls for a change in the direction of the bow STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 9 ex. 1. Franck Symphony p-27.ed. Enlenburg, Allegro non troppo wos v0 ————— == tiebe: These changes in the direction of the bow are made by a good player with practically no break in the continuity of the tone, by virtue of a supple wrist and a skillful cobrdination of all muscular movements. When slurs are marked, all notes under one slur are to be played “in one bow", that is, with no char 1 direction of the bow. Ex. 2. Schubert—Symphony no. 5 p. 24, ed. Eulenburg Andante con moro ‘A violinist would instinctively begin the phrase shown above with an up-bow. The up-bow, in string style, is associated with the up-beat, or anacrusis, whereas the down-beat, as in Ex. r, suggests a down-bow to the player. It is impossible, and often inadvisable, to apply this principle to every up-beat or down-beat, but the principle is con- tinually in evidence in good bowing. Fora vigorous attack on a long note, to be followed by a down-bow chord or accent, it is well to begin down-bow, changing immediately to up-bow. This change of bow will not be perceived by the ear if properly performed, and will permit the use of the more energetic down-bow for both atcacks.10 INSTRUMENTS x. 3. Beethoven—Coriolanus Overture p-tyed. Philharmonia Allegro con brio, . There is the increasing leverage of the length of bow to the left of the string, natural tendency towards crescendo in the up-bow, duc to and likewise a tendency towards dimrinuendo in the down-bow. While these tendencies are guarded against by the player, it is advisable to -ecognize them when planning the bowing of a passage noves down, But if the up and down motions are of unequal time value it means that ficult to mai tain an even dynamic level. The bowing indicated in Fig, 7 will in evitably cause the thied and sixth beats to sound louder than the others, since the same length of bow must be used to play two sixteenth notes in up-bow as was used to play four sixteenths in down-bow. Iris evident that the bow must move up as much the bow must move at an uneven speed, thus making it Fig. 7 ‘A more even tone will be achieved by a bowing which restores the balance of up and down, both in quantity and rate of motion. Adspo Fig. 8 Ina legato phrase the changes in direction of the bow are determined by combined factors of intensity, dynamic level, tempo, the length of the bow, fingering, ete. Any melody can be bowed effectively in many different ways, and it is no wonder that concertmasters often disagree STRINGED INSTRUMENTS n as to the best way to bow a given phrase, and are seen even now mark- ing changes in the bowing of such well-established classics as the Beethoven symphonies. p. 41, ed. Kalmus NONLEGATO Perhaps the commonest bow stroke is that which changes direction can be made without ché, for each note. As mentioned above, the chang break in the tone. But this stroke, known by the French term dé: is usually performed so that one hears the articulation of the bow changes. The notes are not so detached from one another that the effect could be called staccato. The détaché can be described as nonlegato. Ordinarily it is played in the middle or upper third of the bow. EX, 5. Schubert—Sympbony no. 8 p- 57, ed. Philharmonia This nonlegato bow stroke is sometimes used at the point of the bow heness there, and at the heel for the to take advantage of its extreme li added weight occasionally wanted2 INSTRUMENTS Artie point (Pr dla pointe; It..@ punta @ arco; Ger., an der Spitze): x. 6, Barték-—Concerto for Orchestra p. 79, ed. Boosey & Hawkes Pro wo | ge an SSS SS SS SS a Se » == SSS Sa ‘At the heel (Fr., au talon; It, al tallones Ger., om Frosch) Ex, 7. Strauss—Don Quixote p-56, ed. Philharmonia oe -_ gee SS “ at (am Froieh) STRINGED INSTRUMENTS B a For vigorous emphasis and equality of stress, a series of down-bows can be used, near the heel of the bow, the bow being lifted with a swift up-bow motion between the notes. Ex. 8, Scravinsky—Le Sacre du Printemps p- 11, ed. Russe Tempo gusio d=50 7 Tempe ie meee sn] i | oe 7 vempre nace. nom di ve SS soleeeeheses 2 os ppretes Sees es Tompre ace A. combination of legato and nonlegato is found in the bowin, known as Jouré. This is indicated by a dash over each note, with slurs to show the bow changes. The first finger regulates the rather gentle break in the continuity of the tone by controlling the pressure on the stick, aided by a subtle slowing of the bow with the wrist,14 INSTRUMENTS Ex. 9. Sibelius—Symphony no. 2 ee p. 3, €d. Breitkopf staccato Staccato bowing is of two types—“off the string” and “on the string.” In moderate tempo and at a dynamic level from piano to mezzo forte, the bow is dropped on the string with a sort of semicircular motion at the middle of the bow. The bow rebounds, although it is parcly lifted by the wrist. The Italian word spiccato (detached) is or There applied by string players to bowing that makes use of a spring bouncing of the bow-stick. It is also called saltando (jumping). is much disagreement over the exact application of these terms. But fortunately the composer or orchestrator is not called upon to indicate more precisely than by dots over the notes, together with dynamic signs and tempo marks, the quality of music that means to a string player spiccato, saltando, or off-the-string staccato. STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 1s ex, 10. Beethoven—Symphony no. 1 p. 38, ed. Kalmus ‘Andante con moro Staccato playing in fast tempo does not call for a lifting of the bow, but the short, quick down- and up-bows made by the wrist alone, in the middle of the bow, cause the stick to bounce, and this in turn causes the hair to spring off the string with each stroke. ex. 11, Rossini—Overture to William Tell p. 45, ed. Kalmus Allegro virace Another type of bouncing bow is usually called by the French jeté (thrown). It is played near the point, and the bow is not thrown but dropped upon the string with a slight down-bow motion, and allowed to bounce of its own accord, Groups of two to six notes can be played in this way, the indication being dots under a slur, sometimes with the word saltando, or saltato, to make sure of the bouncing effect,16 INSTRUMENTS ex. 12. Rimsky-Korsakoff—Capriccio Espagnol —_p. 73, ed. Kalmus 65 » (Gees ae satan « PES TEs —— > | on SS Se > The bowing called martellato (hammered) is an on-the-string stac- cato (Fr. martelé). The bow is not permitted to leave the string and the stroke is very swift, with abrupt start and stop. The sound of the note, whether in piano or forte might be imagined in the shape of an oblong block with square ends. Although it is usually played with the upper pare of the bow, the martellato stroke may be used at the heel, where the added weight of the bow contributes to the vigor of the staccato. STRINGED INSTRUMENTS "7 ex. 13. Bruckner—Symphony no. 9 p- 142, ed. Philharmonia Virace ftebe « SSE es & wereaisino P rhercaissino | tte rey . wo When several notes under a slur are marked with dots, the intended staccato may be accomplished with a bouncing bow, usually up-bow, as in Ex. 14, or with the bow held firmly on the string, sharp stops being made by the wrist, as in Ex. 15. The latter bowing is known as slurred staccato. ex. 14. Mahler—Symphony no. 4 p- 3red. Philharmonia Modesto8 INSTRUMENTS EX. 15. Stravinsky—Orpheus p. 40, ed. Boosey & Hawkes Andante sostenuto 2) 96 The rhythm of dotted eighth and sixteenth, in fast tempo, is most often played as slurred staccato, even when not so marked. This bow- ing is indicated by a slur, with a dot on the sixteenth note. Itis the first note that is shortened, however. The same bowing is used for the quarter note followed by an eighth in six-eight time, Ex. 16. Berlioz—Fantastic Symphony p. 153, ed. Eulenburg Allegretto non troppad7* For a light, crisp effect, this may be done at the point of the bow, with up-bow on the beats. STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 19 ex. 17. Weber—Euryanthe Overture p. 22, ed. Philharmonia Allegeo marcstod=88 ahyds ayan == v The various bow strokes described are to be found in countless com- binations. True knowledge of their appropriate use comes from long study and experience in playing a stringed instrument, to which must be added real understanding of the music. The student of orchestration should beg the practice of marking the bowing of string parts. Whenever he thinks of a phrase for strings he must always imagine how it would best be bowed, within the limits of his knowledge. Through trial and observation much can be learned about this most important aspect of string writing. It should be realized that bowings marked in printed scores are not always literally followed in performance, Composers are seldom care- ful to indicate all bowings, and some markings are the result of editing. What the composer actually wrote is evidence of his wishes, and this forms the basis for study by conductor and concertmaster as to the best way to realize the composer's intentions. Here, as in all matters of art, there is plenty of room for differences of opinion and interpreta~ tion. ACCENTS Accents are made principally with the bow, but an accent may also be imparted by the left hand, by means of a sudden quickening of the vibrato, by a more forceful finger stroke, or by both. It depends on Whether the accented note is made by lifting the finger (Fig. 92), or by dropping it on the string (Fig. 9). This left-hand accent is nearly al- ways combined with the bow accent in vigorous and rhythmic passages.20 INSTRUMENTS pit ov Fig. 9 ‘Accents are of course relative to the general nuance of a particular tone, whether soft or loud. There are different kinds of accents, created by different modes of attack. The following figure attempts to show graphically the shape of the tone in the ortant of these forms. — y = c= <—_— Fig. 10 Composers in general seem to have been indifferent co these distinc- tions, one reason being perhaps that they are impossible to produce on the pianoforte. Therefore it becomes a responsibility of the conduc- tor to decide which type of accent is meant by the composer's sign, and to see that it is properly executed. EFFECTS OF COLOR To obtain a tone of very soft floating quality the strings may be directed to play on the fingerboard (Fr., sur la touche; Ie, sulla tastiera or sul tasto; Ger., am Griffbrett). The bow is placed so far from the bridge that itis actually over the upper part of the fingerboard, where there is greater amplitude in the vibration of the string. rx, 18, Debussy—Rondes de Printemps p. 36, ed, Durand STRINGED INSTRUME T a In this bowing, care must be taken that too mu upon the bow, lest it strike more chan one st gerboard is impractical on the E-string of the v of the body of the instrument interferes with the bow. Itis often indicated, nevertheless, for passages running up to high positions on the E-string; fe directive cannot be followed literally, it serves to suggest the tone quality desired. Playing with the bow very close to the bridge, or even upon it (Fr., au chevalet; It, sul pomticello; Ger., am Steg), produces a special kind of sound, due to the bringing out of upper partials not usually heard. The sound has been called glassy and metallic. This effect is generally combined with the pressure is not put ed tremolo, EX. 19. Strauss—Symphonia Domestica p67, ed. Associated Music Publis ‘With suthovaation of the erga! pub When sulla tasticra or sul ponticello is no longer wanted, the part is marked modo ordinario, or naturale. The bow may be turned over, so that the strings are struck with the wood instead of the hair (It., col legno). This is a bowing used for dry staccato effects, the bow-stick tapping with a kind of off-the-string staccato.2 INSTRUMENTS x, 20, Dritten—Passacaglia from Peter Grimes p. 16, ed. Boosey & Hawkes AEE legno Pleo forse) col legno ‘Plcen foray | sempre eee col lego ‘Plo os) ae °F sempre ce Conyih 196 by Hee & sks 1d. Ud OY sero Obviously, one can expect little sound to come from drawing the wood across the string, since the amount of friction is very small. There are, nevertheless, some instances in scores of tremolo and legato bowing, col legno. It is interesting that Gustav Mahler felt it necessary to add a footnote in the score of his First Symphony to explain that the indica- tion col legno and the bowing marked were no error. ex, 21. Mahler—Sympbony no. 1 p.91,ed. Universal Feierich und gegen, col keno Sma ro met ol lero me eset far} These effects, although not common, are much better known today. ‘Some composers write col legno battuto (Ger., geschlagen) for the tap- ping, and col legno tratto (Ger., gestrichen) to indicate that the wood STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 2B is to be drawn across the string. The return to normal bowing after col legno is indicated by arco. PILZICATO The strings are frequently plucked, instead of bowed. The direction piszicato (abbreviated pizz.) indicates that this manner of playing is to be continued until the word arco signifies that playing with the bow is to be resumed. The right first finger plucks the string, over the fingerboard, and the other three fingers hold the bow against the palm of the hand. The thumb may rest on the edge of the fingerboard to steady the hand, al- though this position is not always necessary or practical. The playing position of ‘cello and bass permits pizzicato also with the thumb, es- pecially for chords arpeggiated from the bottom note upward. Changing from arco to pizzicato requires an appreciable amount of time, varying according to the position of the bow at the instant. A larger interval must be allowed if the pizzicato follows a down-bow at the point, whereas after an up-bow at the heel the change can be practically instantaneous. ~ Ex, 22, Debussy—Pelléas er Mélisande p- 231, ed. Durand Sourdement até Pr parieht owner; Ehan-Vord, Phaelpia, Fa, ante The return to arco after pizzicato is slightly more inconvenient, as it involves the quick adjustment of the bow into playing position. Ac- vity like that in the following example is not uncommon, however.2 INSTRUMENTS Ex, 23. Berlioz Harold in lialy p- 145,ed. Eulenburg Allegro freneico arco fix. ioe as 7 f fix ft ee F ge tS 7 v ‘The pizzicato is by its nature a form of staccato. The sound dies away quite promptly. Differences are to be noted in this respect be~ tween small and large instruments, violin and double-bass, for instance. ‘The longer and heavier strings sustain the tone much better than the oF ngs are more resonant than those stopped by the shorter ones. Open st fingers. The sound of the vibrato. The quality of tone in pizzicato can be varied by plucking at dif- ferent points on the string, and by the manner of plucking, from a gentle stroking with the fleshy part of the fingertip to a twanging of such violence that the string strikes against the fingerboard. There is also a difference according to the position of the left hand. In higher ingered notes can be prolonged a little by STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 2s positions the string is so shore that the pizzicato is of a hard, dry quality, which at times may be used to advantage. ex. 24. Ravel—Daphnis et Chloé p. 132, ed. Durand Animé eres rade pies 5 The rapidity of passages in pizzicato is necessarily limited by the difficulty of continued plucking by one finger. The trick of alternating first and second fingers in fast pizzicato, acquired by some players, is by no means universal. Factors affecting the practicability of fast piz~ zicato playing include the size of the instrument, the dynamic level of the music, the amount of continuous pizzicato demanded, and the com~ plications in the passage from the standpoint of changes from one string to another. The following is an example of suecessful pizzicato writing ata rapid tempo.26 INSTRUMENTS kx, 25. Dukas—IApprenti-Sorcier p. sted. Kalmus =n6 Pizzicato may also be performed with the fingers of the left hand when the notes are so arranged that a finger is free to pluck the string, or when a finger is so placed that it can pluck as it is raised after stopping a note. Left-hand pizzicato is indicated by a cross over or under the notes. STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 7 Ex. 26, Stravinsky—Sysnphony in C p.2red.Schore Moderato alla breve =66) Chords of three and four notes in pizzicato are arpeggiated from the bottom up, unless otherwise marked. A scries of quickly repeated chords may be more effectively played by movements, using one or several fingers. The direc may be shown by pe: and down-bow. Sometimes quasi guitara is added Irernating back-and-forth on of the strokes, xendicular arrows, or by the usual signs for up. ex, 27. Ravel—L'Enfant et les Sortiléges p. 38, ed. Durand ‘Alegre aon aoppo > ermtsion aned by Durand et Cle, Pala, copyright ownen Elkan-Voge Piadlbia Pa, agen ‘The arpeggiated effect can be held to a minimum by a sharp, sud- den finger stroke. Two notes can be plucked simultaneously with two fingers. A straight bracket is the accepted indication for this.TRUME 28 INS ex. 28. Stravinsky—Ragrime paved. Chester Although possibilities of new sounds to be obtained by pizzicato have not been explored by composers in general, some new effects have been used, such as pizzicato sul ponticello and sul tasto; pizzicato harmonics, picking with the fingernail near the nut; and snapping the string against the fingerboard. The last is indicated by the sign 4. Ex. 29, Barték—Violin Concerto p.51.ed, Boosey & Hawes 6 STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 29 The vibration of a string is a composite of a number of separate, simultaneous vibrations, whose frequencies vary in the ratio 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. etc. These vibrations are r marked m are called nodes. resented in the following diagrams. Points Let us assume the string to be the G-string of a violin. Fig. 11 could then be translated into musical sounds, thus: Te will be noticed that the ratio of the divisions of the string shown in Fig. 11 is the same as that of the frequencies shown in Fig. 12. ‘These sounds present in a single tone are called harmonics. one is the first harmonic, or fundamental tone. The others are called second, third, fourth, and fifth harm present also, in diminishing strength. The number and comparative strength of the harmonics making up a tone give it its individual tone color, or timbre, enabling us to distinguish ‘umber jes, overtones, of partials, Higher harmonics than thes30 INSTRUMENTS the sound of a clariner from that of a ‘cello playing the same note. We do not hear this combination of harmonics as a chord. The fundamental tone is so much stronger than its upper partials that we are regularly deceived into assuming thar it alone is what we hear. If a vibrating string is touched very nodes shown in Fig. 1, it will be prevented from sounding its funda- mental, but it will continue to vibra the node chosen, and it will sound the corresponding note shown by Fig. 12. For example, the G-string is touched lightly ac a py third of its length from the nut, while maintained in vibration by the bow. The entire string vibrates as in no. 3 of Fig. 11. The note sounded lightly at one of the dividing as in the diagram, according to one- is that shown as no. 3 of Fig. 12. The same result is obtained by touch- ing the other node of the same number, two-thirds of the way from nut to bridge. ‘Tones produced in this manner are called by string players harmonics (Fr., sons harmoniques; It, armonici; Ger., Flageolettne). Their tim- bre is quite different from normal stopped tones, since only those partials are sounding that have a node at the point touched. They are indicated in notation by (a) placing a small circle over the note in- tended to sound asa harmonic, or (b) writing a diamond-shaped note at the pitch where the node producing the desired note is found on the string. The indication su! G means that all is to be played on the G-string (Ger., G-Saite). Another means of designating the string to be used, preferred by the French, is that of Roman numerals, the highest string being always I (e.g., 1V* corde). ARTIFICIAL HARMONICS On the violin and viola it is possible to stop a tone with the first finger and at the same time touch a node with the fourth finger. This STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 3M can also be done on the ‘cello, using the thumb and third finger. The node which has been found the most dependable is that of the fourth harmonic, one-fourth the new string length, at a point represented in notation by the interval of a perfect fourth above the note stopped by the first finger. The resulting tone is therefore two octaves above the stopped tone. These harmonics are called artificial harmonics, as differentiated from natural harmonics, which have open strings as fun- damental tones, Artificial harmonics are indicated in notation by (a) placing a small circle above the note to be heard as a harmonic, or (6) writing the fundamental to be stopped by the first finger as a normal note and the node a fourth above as a diamond-shaped note (Fig. 14). The actual pitch of the tone intended is often added above, as (c) ao 6 Fig. 14 Composers frequently use the notation (a) for all harmonics, lea the method of production to the player, whether as artificial or as na- tural harmonics. The notation (b) is sometimes used when the lower tone is an open string. This is incorrece but easily understood. TILES Trills are performed by the motion of one finger, since the finger stopping the lower of the wo tones is held down throughout. Both major and minor trills are good in all ranges, the only exception being those on the lowest note of the instrument, where the alternation of ‘open string and stopped note does not produce as effective a trill as those on stopped notes. Ir should be remembered that a string trill in the orchestra means a till played simultaneously by a whole section. Sixteen first violins will not likely agree on the rhythmic quantities of a trill on a long note, and the effect will not have the clear articulation of the same trill given say to the first lute, played by a single player. ©32 INSTRUMENTS TREMOLO A trill with a harmonic interval larger than a major second is a fin- gered tremolo, If a real tremolo is intended, rather than an alternation of two notesat a stipulated speed (sometimes called measured tremolo), it is advisable to write time values fast enough to insure a real tremolo, or toadd the word tremolo, or tremolando. Slurs are necessary to show the legato movement of the bow. EX. 30. Debussy —L’Apris-midi d'un Faune p-28, ed. Kalmus Tres modéré we ee ae sar ls touche e i le toucte ae av ar le roucbe Fermision granted by Edition Jean Jo inhi, Pe The division of the first violins in the first measure of Ex, 30 would seem on first glance to be only theoretical, but it is a way of making sure that both notes of the interval sound at cach change of bow. When the interval exceeds the limit of extension of the fingers on STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 33 the two notes are held as a double-stop; and the tremolo an undulating motion of the bow, alternately touching the two strings. This type of tremolo is not the same as the true fingered tremolo, since it lacks the clear articulation of the finger strokes. ex. 31. Brahms—Symphony no. 1 p. to3, ed, Kalmus Pia Andante = In the preceding example some of the groupings, such as Violin 1, measure 4, can be played as fingered tremolo (measured), while others require two strings, like those in the first measure, On the other hand, all are possible as double-stops, with undulating bow The bowed tremolo is made with quick up- and down-bow strokes, the left hand holding the note or notes. Ic is a characteristie orchestral effect, capable of great dynamic rang and variety of accentuation.34 INSTRUMENTS Ex, 32, Debussy—La Mer p. 48, ed, Durand Retens a Tempo dai oo, Be = = morte p emoio dim Equally idiomatic in orchestral writing is the continued repetition of bow strokes, détaché, on a series of notes, to give more energy and volume to the string tone. EX. 33. Mozare—Sympbony, K. 543 p. 8, ed. Philharmonia Allegeo STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 35 The mute is a three-pronged device made of wood, metal, bone, or other materials, which can be fitted onto the bridge for the purpose of absorbing som resonating body of the instrument. The tone quality of muted strings is difficult of description, but, once heard, its characteristic sound is easily remembered. While one of the results of muting is to reduce the dynamic power of the body of strings, the radical change in tone color is far more important. Muting should not be regarded as the primary means of getting the strings to play softly. A fine piarissimo can be achieved without mutes, and, furthermore, the special effect of forte with muted strings may sometimes be just what is wanted. ‘Time must be allowed for putting on and taking off mutes, at least a couple of measures in moderate tempo. The more time the better, to avoid confusion and gisturbance. Numerous inventions to facilitate a quick change have appeared, such as mutes with a spring clip, or mutes permanently installed on the strings back of the bridge, to be pushed up against the bridge for muting. It cannot be said that any of these have met with complete acceptance by string players. A gradual change to muted tone can be managed by directing the players to put on mutes one by one, or by desks, marking the point at which all are to be muted. The indication to put on the mute is the Italian con sordina, or con sordino—plural sordine, or sordini (Fr., avec sourdines; Ger., mit Dimapjer, or gedinip{t) To call for removal of the mutes, the passage is marked senza sordini (Fr, sans sourdines; Ger., obne Dimpfer), or via sordini (Fr., dtez les sourdines; Ger., Dimpfer weg). of the vibrations before they can be transmitted to the SCORDATURA A change from the normal runing of the strings is called scordatura. This has been employed to extend the downward range of basses and "cellos on rare occasions. In Don Quixote Strauss asks the solo viola to tune the C-string to B, and a similar change is asked of the ‘cellos in Casella's Partita for Piano and Orchestra. The strings do not give their36 INSTRUMENTS bese tone when altered more than a minor second, and the inconven- ence and disturbance caused by retuning during performance seem to overbalance the slight advantage gained. The use of scordatura for a change of tone color is another matter. In Mabler’s Fourth Syn has all four strings tuned upa whole tone, to make it sound “like a cheap fiddle,” The concertmaster prepares a second instrument to use for hony the solo violin in the second movement this movement, so that retuning is avoided. CHAPTER TWO ee THE VIOLIN Fr,, violon; It, violino; Ger, Violine over-all length of t&e violin is 23% inches. Minor variations I proportions and size are found in different models. The body is 1g inches long, the neck a little under 5% inches, and the sounding lengch of the strings—that is, from nut to brid; slightly over 125% inches. The length of the bow is 29 inches. The top, or belly, of the instrument is usually of pine or spruce, the back of maple in one or two pieces. Ebony is used for the tailpiece, fingerboard, nut, and tuning pegs. Inside the body, the arched belly is reinforced by a strip of wood called the glued beneath the G-string edge of the fingerboard. A wooden sound post is held in place by tension between top and back at a carefully chosen spot near the E-string side of the bridge, having the double function of support and communication of vibrations. The f-holes are characteristic openings of traditional shape at either side of the bridge (Plate on page 38). FINGERING ‘The violin is supported between the chin and the left shoulder. A cchin rest attached at the left of the tailpiece helps hold the instrument s0 that the left hand is free to move up and down the fingerboard. The neck of the violin lies between the thumb and the palm of the left hand, and the lefe elbow is held far to the right, enabling the fingers to fall almost perpendicularly upon the strings. 0The Violin THE VIOLIN 39 ‘An important feature of articulation in string pla ing is thar some notes are made by dropping the finger on the str made by lifting the finger. one legato bow, t descending notes by lifting. Also to be noted is that, after striking, the fingers remain on the string until there is necessity for moving them, as shown in the figure. while others are ig. 15 is played in ding notes are articulated by striking and the the scale Fragment in Fig. 15 The manner in which the fingers are lifted or droppa affects the clarity, rhythm, and tone quality of the sounds produced. The finger action varies from exceedingly energetic strokes (Ex. 34) to an ex- tremely light and fleet articulation (Ex. 35) Ex, 34. Schumann—Symphony no. 2 p-172, ed. Philharmonia Allegro molto sivace EX. 35. Mendelssohn—Italian Symphony p- 140, ed. Eulenburg epg th the pelson of he sole aps for Euenburg Mlnntae Sse: C.F, Petre Corpor40 INSTRUMENTS The following diagram gives the location of the fingers for all the natural notes in the first position. ote that the first finger is drawn back close to the nut for F on the E-string, the interval being a minor second, instead of a major second as on the other strings. The diagram should be studied also for relation- ships involving more than one string. For example, from first finger on one string to second finger on the next higher string is a minor sixth; from first finger on one string to fourth finger on the next higher string is an octave; from second finger on one string to third finger on the next lower string is a perfect fourth, ete. Perfect fifths lie across the strings at right angles. OPEN sTRINGS Duplication by the fourth finger of the open string notes A, D, and E is an advantage peculiar to the first position, There is, however, a marked difference in tone quality between the open string tones and those stopped by the fingers. The former sound clearer and richer in overtones, because the string vibrates between the bridge and the hard wood of the nut rather than the flesh of the fingertip, But without the control of the finger the open tone is susceptible to little modification by the bow, and ic tends to sound with undue prominence, Further- more, its pitch cannot be adjusted while playing (consider the note A as subdominant of E, and then as leading tone of Bp). These discrepancies of intonation are generally tolerated as a necessary evil, notably in the use of natural harmonies, whose pitch is dependent on that of the open string fundamental, and also in enharmonically notated passages. In THE VIOLIN a Fx. 36, open G is assumed to be a satisfactory equivalent of F double sharp. ex. 36. Wagner—Tannbiuser: Bac ed. Kalmus Allegro $e wr Open string tones are usually avoided in expressive melodie phrases, but they are regularly employed in fast scales and figures. Their sound is characteristic of stringed instruments, and may even be exploited as such (Ex. 37). ex. 37. Brahms—Symphony no. 4 p- 134, ed. Kalmus ACCIDENTALS ‘A note affected by an accidental is played with the same finger as the natural note. On the G-string, the first finger plays Ab, Ab, and Ag. Also the first finger must play the sharped open string note Gz. The student should make a diagram similar to that in Fig. 16, marking the location of the fingers on the strings for the playing of the following passage.INSTRUMENTS CHROMATIC PROGRESSION Two notes in chromatic step relationship are by tradition played with the same finger. This requires a more of less rapid shift of the fin- ger on the string; hence, with a legato bowing, a certain amount of portamento is unavoidable. Fig. 18 Musically, the difference between (a) and (4), in Fig. 18 is one of tonality. The fragment (a) is understandable in the key of G, and (6) in the key of Ap, to mention two possible interpretations. The un- orthodox fingering shown in (c) is entirely feasible, and the principle of using a separate finger for each chromatic step hhas in practice par- tially superseded the time-honored one, as by this means a more distinct articulation is obtained, without sliding or portamento. There can be no doubt of the superiority of fingering (c) for rapid passages, but it should be recognized that at a slower tempo the dif- ferentiation in harmonic meaning suggested by (a) and (b) may be sacrificed, not to mention the elimination of certain slides firmly estab- lished in what we know as ‘violin style.” It is true that harmonic de- velopments in the twentieth century often demand complete accept- ance of the enharmonic noration of the tempered scale, but the choice of fingering should be governed by musical rather than by mechanical considerations. These two alternative fingerings are shown in the following scale. Obviously the sound of the finger slides is eliminated if a détaché bow ing is used, but the lower, older fingering remains awkward even then. THE VIOLIN 8 Fig. 19 INTONATION Good intonation (that is, playing in tune) is a perpetual preoccupa- tion with all inst: an absolute but a relative value, however. Observation and experiments have demonstrated that in practice performers do not adhere to any of the scientifically codified standards of pitch, such as equal temperament, Pythagorean, just, or mean-tone intonation, Nor does the player accept the tones he produces by using the proper fingering, etc., without sub- jecting them to constant control and correction through the ear (ex: cept, of course, in the case of instruments like the harp or the piano, whose pitch cannot be adjusted while playing). It can be said that lead- ing-tones and chromatically raised notes are played sharp and very close to their melodic destinations, whereas flatted notes are played low in pitch, and that there operates a continual harmonic adjustment to the sounds of other instruments. ‘The peculiar vibrancy noticeable in the tone of a group of strings playing in unison is due in part to the minute differences in pitch that occur throughout the group. 1, It is not entalists, wind as well as string. pl POSITION TECHNIQUE As the hand ig moved to higher positions new groups of notes lie under the fingers.4" INSTRUMENTS 2 ft et Eating Avwing Daring G-atng second postion thie p Fig, 20 The series may be continued upward, with the qualification that on the lower strings high notes are increasingly difficult of production be cause of the shortness of the string in proportion to its thickness. On the E-string, tones can be played up to the end of the fingerboard, and even beyond, where diatonic intervals become smaller than the thick- ness of the fingertips. The Gz written by Strauss in the following ex ample lies in the thirecenth position, and has a sounding string length of a little more than an inch and three-quarters. It is played by wo desks of violins, doubled at the unison by piccolo, and supported at the octave below by flute, Eb clarinet, and two oher desks of violins ex, 38. Strauss—Also Sprach Zarathustra P THE VIOLIN 45 Fingering at the top of the fingerboard is difficult not only because of the smallness of the intervals and the extended position of the hand, but also because the strings are spaced farther apart at the bridge than at the nut, to facilitate bowing. The E two octaves above the open E-string may be recommended as a good practical upper limit, exclusive of harmonics, for orchestral violin parts HALE POSITION “The hand is said to be in half position when the first finger is a half step from the nut and the second finger plays notes usually played by the first finger. Certain combinations of notes are more conveniently fingered in this rather cramped position (Ex. 39) Ex. 39-Stravinsky—Apollon Musagéte _p. 18, ed. Boosey & Hawkes FOURTH FINGER EXTENSION In the first position the left hand is capable of a stretch of an aug- mented fourth, and even a perfect fifth, from first to fourth finger higher positions, extension of the fourth finger beyond the range of the position is common procedure (Fig. 21).46 INSTRUMENTS SHIFT OF POSITION In changing from one position to another, a sliding finger acts as a guide to the interval of change. The hand may move to any of the positions, but the commonest shift is that from first to third, third to fifth position, etc., involving a slide of a third, usually for the first finger (Fig. 22). ft: Fig. 22 The guiding finger is not necessarily the stopping finger in the new position. xeristic position shift. The first finger slides from B to D, but the fourth finger stops G before D is heard. The slide can be made so quickly as to be inaudible, but ic is often permitted to sound for expressive intensification, Other shifts are shown in (d), (¢), and (4). ig. 23 (a) isa ch rae 8 gh se sth and th. Poe pk pie Pk ae Fig. 23 When taste and the style of the music allow, the finger that is to play the second note may make a before reaching the note. In a descending shift, the portamento on quitting the upper note is kept to a minimum, the thumb acting as a guide to the lower position. ‘The sliding sounds can be reduced to near imperceptibility, or they can be eliminated altogether, by skillful manipulation of the bow and fingers. However, they are idiomatic in string playing, and sometimes a particular fingering that will produce them is deliberately chosen, 1 portamento on he scring just THE VIOLIN Suppression of the portamento in the following example would cer- tainly be inappropriate ex, go. Strauss—Der Rosenkavalier _p. 330, ed. Boosey & Hawkes Watterempo vee we ise a I semi sped ams Hoy awten Ed, aed by prion For GLISSANDO AND PORTAMENTO A true glissando is made with one finger, on one string, with legato bow, and when it is properly executed all intervening stages of pitch are sounded between the indicated limits. ex. 41. Ravel—Daphnis et Chloé p- 297, ed. Durand Permian pane by Durand et Cle, Pare consiht wnes; ERAn-Voes, Pilgepbia Pa, agent ‘This glissando is scored as unison and octaves for first and second violins, violas, half the ‘cellos, and basses, all on their open A-strings, sliding up and down two octaves in fast tempo.48 INSTRUMENTS In Ex. 42, G-string and A-string are designated, although the glis- sandos written could not be made on any other strings. ex. g2. Bartok —Dance Suite p-8,ed. Philharmonia con tna. 1 Icis evident that composers fail to distinguish between portamento and glissando, and it is unnecessary that a pedantic distinction should be made. Portamento seems to imply a manner of connecting melodic tones, and one thinks of a glissando as covering a fairly wide interval, but these conditions are not mutually exclusive. Care should be taken in the notation to show as accurately as possible the exact effect intended, 'A straight line from one note to another is commonly used as a sign of portamento, although there is often doubt as to how complete a slide is wanted. In Ex. 43 a real glissando with one finger could be made where the lines are marked, but, on the other hand, the lines may be taken simply as suggesting a musical style in which more than usual emphasis is given to the ps Ex. 44is more problematical. A complete portamento from the C down to the E is out of the question, since the upper note is too high ro take on the G-string. The most the performer can do is to make a small slide at the beginning and end of the descent. rmentos associated with position shifts. Ex. 43. Mahler—Symphony no. 4 p.118, ed. Philharmonia Teangulls ‘a aatando THE VIOLIN 9 ex. 44-Mahler—Symphony no. 4 p. 119,¢d. Philharmonia Teanguil : ph Es mle SP ——— Pp Likewise the glissando in the next example cannot be literally exe- cuted. After the open E is reached, something like a rapidly fingered chromatic scale or partial glissando on the lower strings must be sub- stituted. ex. 45. Ravel—La Valse p- 39, ed. Durand Mouvement de vake viennoise WIDE SKIPS To judge the degree of difficulty in fingering wide leaps one con- siders the strings involved and the position displacement necessary. The skip of two octaves and a major sixth in Ex. 46 passes from the G-string tothe E-string, and the hand must move from first position (third finget ©) to seventh position (fourth finger A). This is equivalent to a slide from C up to B for the third finger, an interval of a major seventh on one string. Ex. 46. Brahms—Symphony no. 3 p-49,ed. Kalmus50 INSTRUMENTS Similarly, itis necessary to cross over two strings in the next example, bur it happens that the ieft hand does not have to change position to play the two lower notes on the G-string. All are in the sixth position, except that the initial B is better played on the more brilliant E-string in third position. ex. 47. Holst—The Planets ee v aed by permison of J. Corwen & Sant Le p.29,ed. Boosey & Hawkes Skips made on one string are apt co demand more displacement of the hand. In the following example, the leap of a tenth from Fg to A means a shift from first to seventh position, just as for the much greater interval in Ex. 46. ex. 48. Mahler—Symphony no. 9 < = eer ar EE 7 1. by Univeral Eatlon A. G. Used by pemion p. 118, ed. Boosey & Hawkes If the two notes are to be slurred, the interval must be arranged so that cither a single string, or two adjacent strings, can be employed, since the bow could not play legato and at the same time jump over intervening strings. ex. 9. Reger—A Romantic Suite, op. 125 p. 48, ed. Bote & Bock Vivace) pie ‘Wie autorsatlon of the orginal publisher EA Bote BC. Boch, Bein, Winbaden A skillful player can give a fairly good impression of a legato skip across intervening strings by lightening and slowing the bow at the THE VIOLIN 1 right instant. It must be admitted, however, that keen ears are not de- ceived, Ex. 50. Berg—Lyric Suite p. 36, ed. Universal CCopsint 12 by Univeral Edtion A. G. Used by permission, (Open strings may take part in passages in which the hand remains in a high positio Ex. 51. Hindemith—Symphony in E Flat p. 126, ed. Schott 2) Copyiht 1963 by Scott & Co, Led, Used by permis, CHOICE OF FINGERINGS More than one fingering is possible for any succession of notes, and the one sel fingers. Simplification of bowing, by eliminating string changes, is sometimes a predominant consideration. Often a fingering with more position shifts is adopeed in order to preserve the unity of tone color and special quality of a single string, or to give a particular expressive turn to a melody. The student's attention is called to the importance of developing an appreciation of these differences in the sounds pro- duced by stringed instruments. In recent years one notes a strong tendency toward a liberation of violin fingering technique from the traditional system of positions. Te cannot be denied that many forced and unnatural finger positions are the result of “correct” fingering, and that these produce bad intonation, Accomplished and experienced players find that they prefer to discover fingerings most suited to the shape of the hand, of their own individual hand, without reference to conventional patterns and positions, so that the notes to be played lie conveniently under the fingers that are to ted is not always that which is most convenient for the2 INSTRUMENTS play them, Doubsless these principles will one day be incorporated into the teaching of violin playing. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE STRINGS While there is much more unity of timbre in a stringed instrument than ina woodwind, there exists in this respect within the homogeneity of the violin a striking variety and even contrast of colors and dyna range. This is largely because of the differ four strings. Since the pitch ranges of the strings overlap, the possibili- ties for variety are multiplied, and we cannot designate characteristics of low, medium, and high registers, as we do for wind instruments “The E-string is made of steel. The radical change to this material from gut, in the interests of greater brilliance and durability, occurred in the first quarter of the present century and was felt by many to be a disaster because of the loss of a certain silky and mellow quality. Acstrings are of gut, although some orchestra players now use a metal A. The D-string is either of gut or gut wound with aluminum wire. The G-string is always a wound string, silver or copper wire over gut being the commonest material. D- and G-strings entirely of metal are also used The tuning pegs to which the strings are attached are held in position by the friction of a good fit. A knot or a loop attaches the other end of the string to the tailpiece. Metal strings require a special screw device ‘on the tailpiece for tuning fine differences. ‘The E-string has the most carrying power. Forceful and even stri- dent at times, it is also capable of an ethereal quality, luminious and clear, when played softly (Fx. 52) ces in sound between the ex. 52, Milhaud—Second Symphonic Suite p. 69, ed. Durand Spl easing ~ £ Permisen ward by Durand et Cle, Fain eopyriaht owners; Etaa-Voge Pildsptia, Pa agent THE VIOLIN 53 The A-string is fairly strong in the first position, losing some bril- liance and power as the string becomes shorter in upper positions. For a soft, expressive phrase in that range, itis generally preferable to move up the A-string rather than pass over to the E. (Ex. 53). EX. 53. Brahms—Symphony no. 3 p.67, ed. Kalmus Peco alegre a gerd The lease powerful string is che D-string. It has a quiet, subdued quality in contrast to the G, and is especially suited to certain calm types of expression (Ex. 54). EX. 54. Beethoven—Piano Concerto no. 4 p.2,ed. Philharmonia Allegeo: moderto P ‘The G-string is next to the E-string in sonorous strength. It is excel- Tent for broad melodies rising as high as the seventh or eighth position, although it has a tendency to hoarseness in the extreme high tones. A cautious limit for melodies on the G-string would be an octave and a fourth above the open string (Ex. 55).54 INSTRUMENTS kx. 55. Mahler—Symphony no. 3 p- 213, €d. Boosey & Hawkes The next example illustrates a way of avoiding loss of volume and force by using the G-string instead of the weaker D. ex. 56. Barték—Concerto for Orchestra p. 56, ed. Boosey & Hawkes, Andante beeee sempre g Loud accented notes on the G-string can be forceful to the degree of ferocity, Fx. 57. Roussel—Symphony in G Minor p-39,ed. Durand Allegro vivo To signify that a passage is to be played on a certain string, the pas sage may be marked sul G (or D or A), with a dotted line continuing as far as necessary. One should realize, however, that a violinist selects his fingering according to the musical and technical demands of the ‘moment, and ordinarily such indications are needed only when a special effect is intended. THE VIOLIN 55 Most violin music will require the use of more than one string for agiven phrase. The passing from one string to to reconcile their diffe and as fa tinuity of color and intensity. ther is done in a way as possible to preserve con- DOUBLE-STOPS AND CHORDS nd bow shows how hand is necessary for the bow The above representation litele change in the elevation of the ri to play on different strings. The bow can be drawn ina plane to engage two str of the left hand (Fig. 252). Ie cannot be drawn across three strings at once, unless enough pressure is put upon it to depress the middle string of the three into the same plane with the other two. This is done in three-part chords that are loud and of shore }). Otherwise, in both three-part and four-part chords, either the top note or the two top notes are held after playing the lower notes as grace notes (Fig. custom to play ¢! not desired, a notation like that shown in (e) should be employed. S at once, whatever the posit ne lower notes before the beat f such anticipation is56 INSTRUMENTS “The notation in Fig. 25(e) makes for fussiness in the score, and com- posers generally have been content to write the plain chord, relying on the musical intelligence of performer and conductor for a proper rhythmic execution. In the opening tutti chords of the Eroica, the first violins must sound the four strings as nearly simultaneously as they can, to match the staccato of the other instruments. (The example is nsed score. All instruments are notated at actual pitch.) given in co1 Ex. 58, Beethoven—Syniphony m0. 3 p- ted. Kalmus Allegro com brio hog ¢ The student can best determine the practicability of any multiple stopping by the method of making diagrams showing the location of the rers, at least until he gains enough experience to be able to picture these positions in his imagination, The practice of making such dia~ grams will go far coward giving him that experience. The following points will be found useful in writing chords for the violin. THE VIOLIN 7 One finger can stop two adjacent strings at once (the interval of a perfect fifth), but it cannot stop three or four. The less awkward and strained the hand position the better the chord will sound, and the less likely that it will be out of tune, One good ambered fingers on higher strings. will illustrate this. rule is to try to have the higher- The following two contrasting cas Fig. 26 ‘The hand position for (a), with its oucward slant, is practically that of the relaxed hand when the forearm is held upwards. In (4), not only must the hand be forced into a twisted position, but also the free vibra tion of the E- and A-strings is apt to be interfered with. It is not that the chord is unplayable but that (2) is much more certain and effective. Complex and awkward finger cor place than simple a Open strings are frequently used in chords and double-stops. They may be combined with stopped notes in higher positions (Fig. 27). binations need more time to set in convenient ones. 4 obpo 2 Biya pe Fig. 27 The unison of stopped tone and open string is very resonant, es- pecially in tremolo. Ex. 59, Prokofief!—Chout p-123,ed. Gutheil Age te pom58 INSTRUMENTS The finger positions for three- and four-part chords are often the basis for arpeggio figures across the strings. The bow may play legato back and forth (Ex. 60), or it may bounce lightly by its own elasticity (Ex. 61). Ex. 60. Wagner—Die Walktire: Siegnnunds Liebeslied p15, ed, Eulenburg Minig bowg Ene EE = ex. 61. Rimsky-Korsakoff—Capriccio Espagnol. 9, ed. Kalmus Vivo ¢ anepiteso Copyright by M. P, Bele ale agente Boomy & Hawkes, Und by pemiion HARMONICS Although harmonics are primarily a coloristic resource, the octave harmonic is frequently employed as a normal tone in the melodie line, whether or not the composer has so indicated. Ex. 62. Schubert—Symphony no. § P- 44, ed. Eulenburg Menuerra P eile wth the pelo ofthe sl agent fr Eslenbore THE VIOLIN 59 The upper limie for natural harmonics on the violin is generally placed at the fifth harmonic; that is, two octaves and a major third above the open string. In practice, the higher harmonies would prob- ably be taken as artificial harmonics, up to the fourth or fifth position on the E-string, although still higher harmonics have been written (Ex. 63). Ex, 63. Copland—Symphony no. 3 p. 151, ed. Boosey & Hawkes fe te Examples are numerous of high pedal notes in harmonics, frequently with bowed tremolo, Their effect is enhanced by mutes; and in soft nuances chords in harmonics for divided violins, muted, make an at- tractive background of atmospheric color, Artificial harmonies in quick succession, with either legato or dé- taché bow, involve'continual shifting, much like playing a melody with ‘one finger, Ex. 64. Milhaud—Symphony no. 2 p-21, ed. Heugel +38 -- eee ae Ae Been S54 no GS Sorte Petintecty Reprodoced by permion of Heupel ot Ce Fain owas of the copie ‘The glissando in natural harmonies is effective with a body of strings. ‘The upper half of the string is brushed lightly wich the third or fourth finger, the harmonics sounding at the nodes. There is no sound of portamento between the notes.INSTRUMENTS —L?Oiseat p- 12, ed. Broude Bros. Molto moderato {ear lato Sin nd Dek oi An unusual, delicate effect is obtained with an arpeggio across the strings, in harmonics. p-t21, ed. Durand P The artificial harmonic created by touching a perfect fifth above the stopping first finger sounds a twelfth above that fundamental. It js rarely used in orchestral scores, but some instances are found in médlern music. Ex. 67. Bart6k—Dance Suite zr = Coostaht 186 by Universal Econ. Copel asaned 169 to Toowy & Mawhen Lid Used by p-31,ed, Philharmonia FIRST AND SECOND VIOLINS In score reading it is essential to bear in mind that a string part is played by a number of players, a whole section of sixteen first violins, THE VIOLIN ot for instance, as opposed to one player to a partiin the case of woodwind or brass. The two sections of violins far outnumber any other group, while presenting on the printed page a look of equality The part for second violins, in a symphony or technical difficulty from that of the first violins. Indeed, one of the commonest functions of the second violins is to double the firsts at the estra, differs litele in unison or octave, This was necessary in the classical period because of the comparatively small number of violins available to balance horns and trumpets. But also in modern times we find that over twice as many violins are still not adequate to cope with the sonority of an enormously expanded brass section. The first violin partis usually the top voice of the strings and carries the largest share of prominent thematic material. Seated on the left of the conductor, at the edge of the stage, the first violins play with their instruments in the most advantageous position relative to the audience. If the second violins are seated on the right, in traditional fashion, their instruments are turned away from the audience and some sound is lost. If they are massed with the first v they are still dominated by the first violins who are between them and the listeners, and the effect of independence and antiphony often imagined by the composer is much reduced. This is one of the many acoustical problems standing in the way of an exact science of orches- tration. ‘The second violins may have a secondary melodic part, or they may, ins, as some conductors prefer, for variety, be substituted for the first violins. They may engage in ac- companiment figures of every sort, cither by themselves or associated with first violins or other strings. In Ex, 68, in the first and third meas- utes, the two sections alternately play figures from a single line, giving it more security and energy through the simplification of each part and the overlapping unisons at the joints.a INSTRUMENTS Ex, 68. Brahms—Symphony no. 4 p-135,ed. Kalmus — Aggy eg eet Divided violins playing in parts may be employed unaccompanied by other instruments. In the following excerpt, the strings are reduced to four first violins, soli, Ex. 69. Liszt—A Faust Symphony p. 148, ed. Eulenburg Boop wie dole aire | THE VIOLIN 6 SOLO VIOLIN Many scores of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries contain parts for solo violin, to be played by the concertmaster. These solo parts vary in importance from the occasional phrases in Wagner and Mahler toa developed obbligato of concertolike proportions and virtuosity, as, in Ein Heldenteben, by Richard Strauss. The reason for choosing the sound of a solo violin is not merely that a reduction in volume is sought. A single instrument possesses an intimate intensity in its tone quality and expression; by comparison the complete section sounds formal and impersonal. This is one of the motivating factors in the trend toward the small orchestra in the twentieth century. An acoustic phenomenon to be noted when the solo violin plays in the midst of a large orchestra is its surprising ability to make itself heard. Ir is well known that two instruments playing the same part do not create twice the sonority of one. Their overtones are dulled by minute pitch differences and, moreover, their individual expressiveness is canceled in favor of a composite level. ‘The solo violin, playing an independent part, can in no way be looked upon as merely the sixteenth part of the first violin section, Performers are cognizant of three attitudes, or approaches, adopted in the playing of music. These are the orchestral style, the chamber D“ INSTRUMENTS music style, and the solo style. Playing in an orchestra, the individual allows himself to be absorbed in the mass. In chamber musie style, the performer retains his individuality while sharing it on an equal basis with his associates. The soloist is properly assertive and aggressive, striving to project the music with all the vigor and authority at his command. This attitude contributes to the distinction of the solo violin part. CHAPTER THREE mee THE VIOLA Fr, alto; It. viola; Ger., Bratsche HE proportions of the viola cannot be as nearly defined as those | of the violin, which can be said to have a standard size within quite small limits of variation. Fine violas exist, and are being played, whose measurements show variations of 1¥4 to 2 inches in body length, and comparable differences in sounding string lengths. It seems that every imaginable combination of measurements has been tried in the as yet unfinished evolutionary process, the goal of which is to achieve an instrumental design that will answer to a common ideal of the viola’s sound and capabilities. This common ideal is being delayed in its crystallizing by an unusual divergence of opinion among pe formers, composers, and listeners, both as to what kind of tone the viola should produce and what kind of music it should be expected to play. The viola presents an especially marked example of the continuity of the evolutionary process, which we cannot assume to be cor the case of any of our instruments. A hypothetical norm or average may be given for the principal ‘measurements: length of body 16% inches; length of neck 6%q inches; over-all length 27% inches; sounding length of strings 1514 inches. Even the largest violas are not big enough in comparison with the violin to correspond to the pitch a perfect fifth lower, and this discrepancy is doubtless responsible in large part for the unique tone quality of the viola. The larger the instrument the more difficult it is to handle, es- pecially when playing in upper positions ‘The bow is somewhat thicker than the violin bow, and hen “ ced in e heavier.66 INSTRUMENTS The violas h duction requires a certain amount of “digging in.” Light and airy types of bowing are therefore less natural to the viola ¢ They are not to be shunned, but one should realize that only skillful players wich good instruments can make them sound effectively The two lower strings are wound with wire, the others being plain gut. Some players use wound strings for all four, and metal A-strings are also used, ier strings speak wich more reluctance, and tone pro- in to the violin, FINGERING The fingering system of the viola is identical with that of the violin Since there is a difference of some 24 inches in the'two string len the major and minor second intervals between the tionately larger. Playi hand and strong fin- gers, particularly the fourth finger, which is held in a more extended position than on the violin. The extension of the left forearm in the first position proves tiring after long playing. Positions above the third are inconvenienced by the awkwardness of getting around the shoulder of the viola with the left hand. hs, \gers are propor- g the viola requires al Positions fie porion thi potion axing B Dang BE owe SSS SS fey cag EE THE VIOLA o ‘The harmonic obtainable by extension of the fourth finger in the seventh position is shown in the diagram, as it represents a practical upper limit for orchestral writing, Except as harmonics, notes higher than this are rarely written, and nearly always they are doubled by violins. Ex, 70. Prokofieff—Chowt feces ees p- 53, ed. Gutheil t I=? =F Ger 24 Beet 4 A Ot, Coa and 1 Bey & aka ed cuErs ‘The normal clef for the viola is the alto clef (middle C on the third line). The treble clef (G clef) is employed when the part lies sub- stantially above the range of the alto clef for a length of time. Too many clef changes should be avoided. A violist is quite accustomed to reading two ot three leger lines above the staff, and he would prefer to do so rather than change clef for just a few notes. Because of the wider spaces between fingers, the half position is more convenient on the viola than on the violin and is more frequently used. ex. 71. Brahms—Symphony no.2 p-97.ed. Kalmus Allegro con spirit CHARACTERISTICS OF THE STRINGS Adjectives used to describe the tone of the viola, or of any other instrument, cannot do more than direct the student's attention to cer- tain admittedly general and vague attributes. There is no way other“8 INSTRUMENTS than actual hearing to store up the memory impressions that make pos- sible the mental hearing ability indispensable for the practi of orchestration. One must develop the capacity to call to mind the sound of each instrument, comparing it to other instruments, but it is also important to distinguish differences in tone quality present in cach single instrument. The top string of the viola presents a striking contrast to the other three strings. Its timbre has been described as nasal, pier ing, and sandy. It has a tendency to sound unduly prominent, bur it goes without saying that a good performer keeps @ smooth balance in passing from the D-string to the A. The A-string’s individuality is well exhibited in the following example, of the art ng, penetrat~ Ex. 72. Shostakovich—Symphony no. 5 p-12, ed. Musicus Moderato ‘The D-string is unobtrusive and gentle, although it has more tone- weight than the D of the violin, It is, with the G-string, the best part of the viola for the many kinds of accompaniment figure commonly allotted to it, and it is excellent for melodies like the following. Here the violas play in octaves with the oboe for two measures, and with the flute for the rest of the phrase. p-9.¢d. Kalmus ex. 73. Brahms—Symphony no. 3 Allg pore ‘paraoio << 221 yep THE VIOLA 6 and ‘While the G-string is subdued in comparison with the C-strings, it gives a richer and warmer tone than the violin’s G. Ex. 74. Debussy Nocturnes: Nuages p. 10, ed. Jobert _— P esprene — ——— eamfaton for veri mane by hie Jam Jaber, Pari, France, copyright owners HikanVoet Ea ae ee TS ‘The C-string of the viola is the only one beyond the range of the violin. It is powerful and distinctive in timbre, Although coinciding with part of the range of the ‘cello, its tones are in sharp contrast to the sound of the ilo. Those who look for subjective qualities find it foreboding and menacing. In the following example, with vigorous détaché bowing, in the lower half of the bow, it gives much solidity and energy to the string unison. . string of the Ex. 75. Bartdk—Concerto for Orchestra _p. 89, ed. Boosey & Hawkes Presto. oe Copyright 1946 by Mawes Son 1. Cd The C-string is also capable of soft, delicate tones, as in this ac- ‘companiment figure for divided violas,70 INSTRUMENTS Ex. 76, Strauss—Tod und Verklirung p-41, ed. Kalm Allegro dee ee MELODIC USES ‘The situation of the viola in the middle of the pitch range of the strings seems to Rave made it the busiest member of the group. It is not only appropriate for melodies of its own, but itis constantly called upon to double violins at the octave or unison, or it may double the ‘eellos or even the basses. The character and che sound of the viola are more suited to singing melody than to the performance of agile figuration. DOUBLE NOTES Ir has always fallen to the viola to perform a great deal of harmonic filling up. Viola parts in scores of the classical period and later abound with passages in double notes, often without indication as to whether or not these are to be played divisi. The fact that they are nearly always practicable as double-stops, by good play have been optional, but ie is certain that the result is neater and the in- tonation more secure when the part is divided, Example 77 shows that Mozart considered violas entirely adequate and suitable for the im- portant accompaniment at the beginning of the G Minor Symphony. , suggests that this may BX. 77. Mozart—Synephony in G Minor, K. 550 p. 1,ed. Philharmonia Allegro molto ai Nee 20 —2e en, vs Eitiathaat SES TE The absence of double notes in the viola part contributes to the transparency and fleemness of the orchestration of the Overture to The Flute, whereas on the other hand the massive vibrancy of the Beethoven tutti shown in Ex. 78 is largely due to the violas’ three-part THE VIOLA n tremolo on the lower strings. Held chords for winds are omitted from the example. Ex. 78. Beethoven—Violin Concerto p-8,ed. Eulenburg Allegro ma non troppo bd o eprint eth te pevsion of he oe apn for Euenburg Ninna Sere CF. eee Compre ‘When two notes lie both on the C-string, as in measure 2 of the next example, they must of course be played divi. x, 79. Wagner—Prelude to Parsifal p-23,ed. Eulenburg Sek ag c rr) = * Rerigeye meme ofthe ke ges for Eakenbure Minar Ses: C.F Res Capen Tn a modern orchestra there are usually twelve violas. In the period of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven, the number was at most five, with six to ten first violins and six to ten second violins. Violas have a heavier tone than violins, and in classical scores there is good evidence that the divided violas were thought a sufficient balance for the combined first and second violins. Also, there are numerous instances in which these divided violas are combined with wind instruments, like the following. pen INSTRUMENTS Ex. 80. Mozart—Sympbony in C Major, K. 200. p. 3, ¢d. Philharmonia Allegro micro on : Ss THE VIOLA B The practice of dividing violas remains widespread to the present day, although one cannot say it is consistent enough to become the rule. There are many scores (¢.g., Ravel's Daphnis e¢ Chloé) in which the violas are given regularly two lines in the score. There are likewise scores in which divided violas are a rarity (e,g., Stravinsky's Symphony in C). Ieis now mandatory to mark clearly either div. or non div. when there are double notes. VIOLAS AS BASS A light bass situated in the octave below middle C is sometimes bet- ter given to violas than to ’cellos, in either arco or pizzicato. Ex. 81. Mahler—Symphony no. 7 p. 236, ed. Bote & Bock Grzioo fe 3m +30. Wit sutoristion ofthe isan pobliker EA Bote & G. Bock, Bein, Wisbaden DOUBLE-STOPS AND CHORDS Ie is wise to adhere to the principle that the maximum stretch from first to fourth finger is the equivalent of a perfect fourth on one string,