Variation 25

#ricochet #upbowspiccato #downbowspiccato

            This variation has some similarity to Variation 15. Although the earlier variation is all separate bows, they are both entirely off the string spiccato type strokes. The increased challenge here is that this variation incorporates down and up bow spiccato. The bow should happily bounce throughout the variation. In the beginning, practice the variation with the bow grounded in an up and down bow staccato stroke.

            The added challenge compared to previous variations here is the pair of 16th notes at the beginning of each measure. To practice this very fast stroke, isolate the first three notes of the variation and practice with just open strings (A and/or D strings). Isolating the practice to the open strings helps build up to the increased difficulty of coordinating the left hand with the fast ricochet stroke. Feel the fast up and down bow in the beginning as one impulse. Practice the three notes first, then add the rest of the notes of the measure.

            Use the metronome to help build tempo in this variation. The ricochet stroke is possible to execute at a slow tempo, albeit in a more controlled fashion than is necessary in the final tempo. Very gradually increase the tempo with the metronome while maintaining clarity and coordination of the bow strokes.