Variation 31

#wholebow #upbowstaccato #options #gliss

            This is another variation that can be interpreted with either an up bow staccato or up bow spiccato. Essentially, this means on the string or off the string. It is best to practice and master both versions. That said, it is better to start with the on the string version regardless of which one you prefer. This allows you to master the articulation necessary for the fast 16th notes. Slowly build speed using the metronome and be sure to use the entire bow for each slur. Start all the way at the tip, then adjust the amount of bow use on the first quarter as necessary to end up at a spot on the bow where you will cleanly articulate the 16th notes. Experiment with different bow distribution configurations and adjust accordingly as your speed increases.

The o.H. (upper half) markings in this variation seem to favor the up bow staccato interpretation, as an off the string version of the stroke staying in the upper half is less applicable in repertory settings than the on the string staccato version.

Be mindful of your contact point in this variation. Since the first notes of each measure are often in a markedly different range of the fingerboard than the 16th notes that follow, an adjustment of the bow toward the fingerboard may be required in many measures.