Variation 10

#spiccato

            This variation builds on the spiccato technique in variation 2. Its primary goal is to develop the ability to quickly switch between spiccato and slur. The common issues with this rapid change are that the slurs end up bouncing (since they occur out toward the middle and most bouncy part of the bow) and that there is not enough bounce in the spiccato stroke.

            At first, practice the variation without slurs, then when that becomes comfortable, separate the two techniques by placing a quarter note rest before and after the slurred beat. Use this opportunity to set the bow and prepare it for the next stroke. Gradually decrease the amount of break before and after the slur, and then only put a break either before or after. Remember that each bar begins on alternating up bows and down bows, so make sure to match the stroke of spiccato and slur with this change. Although the accent for the slur is only marked in the first note, practice this variation with the accent on every slur, as well as playing it without any slurs.

            An additional technique to support a smooth and grounded slur is to alter the angle of the hair on the string. Use less hair by tilting hair away from you after the last spiccato note. Less hair absorbs some of the vertical motion, thereby preventing unwanted bounce in the bow and string.