Welcome to your virtual Class Notes Residency with the Mill City String Quartet!
The Mill City String Quartet was founded in 2007. Based in Minnesota, the quartet has played all over the country and gives concerts in a wide variety of settings.
Instead of visiting your school in person, each member of the quartet has created a series of tutorials to help you improve on your instrument and develop your technique. They will even play your part on some of the pieces you have been assigned so you can practice along with them.
1. INTRODUCTION
Meet Ruth! Hear a little about how she got her start as a cellist. She will also tell you a little bit about what the life of a professional musician is like. Finally, she'll play her cello for you.
2. FOURTH POSITION AND SHIFTING
Ruth will teach you how to find fourth position, and how to shift to get there. Have your instrument ready to play along and try with her.
3. SEATED POSTURE REVIEW
Seated position is so important for cellists. Ruth will review how to find a great posture to help you play better. Have your instrument so you can try her tips and techniques.
4. EXTENSION
Ruth will explain extensions and how to do them on your instrument. Have your cello ready to try it out. Have your music for Medieval Wars ready too - Ruth will show how extensions can help you play that piece.
5. BOW GRIP AND BOW ANGLE
Ruth will give you a lot of reminders and suggestions about how to have a great bow grip.
6. PLAY THROUGH!
Have your instrument and music ready. Ruth is going to help you work on measures 82-85 in Medieval Wars. She will explain the idea of "planning the bow" and playing really good accents.
Hear the Mill City String Quartet perform together below:
LISTEN Mendelssohn's 4 Pieces for String Quartet - Capriccio
Have a question or suggestion? Contact Katie Condon, music education specialist.
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