FOR THE CURIOUS CELLIST

Basic Principles of Technique

On this page, we will look at certain fundamental, overriding principles/elements that apply equally well to the technique of both hands – and often even to life in general. These concepts are like the soil in which the roots of technique can grow and deepen, or the foundations on which a magnificent building can be built. Without these solid foundations, without this healthy fertile soil, it is very difficult to play the cello well, no matter how hard we practice.

These vital principles include:

Tension/Relaxation       Anticipation/Preparation/Overlap

Strength/Flexibility      Control/Overcontrol       Seating Posture

The Contact Principle        Claws Or Paws ?

The Invisible Thumbs

And in this category of “fundamental principles of technique” we will look also at the vital subject of the coordination between the two hands, in which the most notable problems are revealed in fast playing:

Coordination And Fast Playing