Essential Reading for String Quartet Technique and Performance
String quartet playing is an advanced art form that requires not only technical skill but also a deep understanding of ensemble dynamics and musical expression. This article explores some of the best books that offer comprehensive insights into the techniques and performance practices of string quartets, providing invaluable resources for both students and professionals.
The Art of String Quartet Playing: Practice Technique and Interpretation
One of the standout works in this field is The Art of String Quartet Playing: Practice Technique and Interpretation by M.D. Mary Dowes Herter Norton. With ISBN numbers 0393003604 and 9780393003604, this book delves into the world of string quartet performance through meticulous practice and thoughtful interpretation. Norton's insight is invaluable, offering a wealth of practical advice on ensemble playing and individual voice development. Here is an excerpt that succinctly captures one of her key points:
Think of the forward motion of music as a river. Tempo, as we shall see, is the current. Each player should feel their voice as a tributary stream, winding in and out and in again, part of a greater whole. He must enter without beginning and cease without stopping, feeling as though that whole were emanating from his own mind, only his fingers being limited to his particular instrument.
- The Art of String Quartet Playing, Chapter Two: Ensemble, p.23
The Art of Quartet Playing: The Guarneri Quartet in Conversation with David Blum
Another crucial resource is The Art of Quartet Playing: The Guarneri Quartet in Conversation with David Blum by David Blum, featuring insights from prominent Guarneri Quartet members including Arnold Steinhardt, John Dalley, Michael Tree, and David Soyer. ISBN numbers 0801494567 and 9780801494567. This book offers in-depth discussions on various facets of quartet performance, including intonation, vibrato, pizzicato, note lengths, dynamics, bowing, tempi, and practice tips. Furthermore, it provides numerous score examples from the quartet's repertoire, illustrating each point effectively.
When it comes to string-quartet playing, there is a widespread belief that it demands a constant unanimity of style and approach. However, it should be remembered that a quartet is based on four individual voices. While it is possible to have a quartet where each player blends too well, resulting in a loss of individual character, the ideal situation is for each player to contribute their unique voice, thereby enriching the overall sound.
- Michael Tree, The Art of Quartet Playing, Chapter 1: Complements and Challenges, p.34-37
Unique Perspectives on Ensemble Playing
Each member of the Guarneri Quartet brings their own unique insights into the art of ensemble playing. Consider the following quotes:
You can't put down a general rule about vibrato or the degree of vibrato that must be perfectly matched. But sometimes you have the opposite problem: that of blending too well. For instance, certain voices may not stand out in adequate relief.
- John Dalley, The Art of Quartet Playing, Chapter 1: Complements and Challenges, p.37-38
Each of us has to be strong enough to exert our leadership, strong enough to endure the constant criticism of our colleagues, and strong enough to let go of cherished ideas when they don't coincide with the majority opinion.
- Arnold Steinhardt, The Art of Quartet Playing, Chapter 1: Complements and Challenges, p.37-38
Our way of ensemble playing is not that someone leads and everyone else just follows. The actual lead may be in the first or second fiddle, but in fact, everyone feels it at the same time. Everyone is thinking towards a central point: the start of a piece, a ritardando, or whatever it may be. We don't follow each other; we play together.
- David Soyer, The Art of Quartet Playing, Chapter 1: Complements and Challenges, p.37-38
These works not only provide theoretical insights but also practical advice, making them essential reading for anyone serious about mastering the art of string quartet playing. From technique to interpretation, these books offer a holistic approach to quartet performance, enhancing your understanding and skills in various facets of ensemble playing.