Hi everyone! This is Joel Kennedy with Kennedy Violins, and today’s play-along video is all about Seitz Concerto No. 2, 3rd Movement from Suzuki Book 4. If you’re following along each week, you know that the Dart Board of Destiny determines which piece we tackle next! Stay tuned until the end of the video to see what’s up next.

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Introduction to the Piece

This is one of the more technically demanding concertos in Suzuki Book 4, requiring strong articulation, rhythm control, and precise bowing technique. While I could spend hours breaking it down, I’ll focus on the key articulation, rhythm, and practice techniques to help you master this piece efficiently.

First Section: Articulation and Bow Control

Key Techniques:

1. Lift and Catch the Bow: This piece introduces a bowing technique that feels like a precursor to spiccato.

2. Bow Placement: Stay in the middle to lower half of the bow for control and clarity.

3. Staccato Execution: Ensure a clean articulation by stopping the bow on each note.

Practice Steps:

• Focus on lifting and catching the bow for the first few measures.

• Ensure you have enough bow left for your up-bows.

• Maintain articulation in the lower part of the bow.

Double Stops and Finger Positioning

• Play double stops in the lower part of the bow for maximum control.

• For three-note chords, break them into two-note groupings to maintain clarity.

• Keep fingers upright to avoid muting open strings.

Practice Tips:

• Isolate double stops and play them without slurs first.

• Check for intonation and bow distribution before adding slurs.

Rhythm and Counting in 6/8 Time

One of the trickiest parts of this piece is its compound meter (6/8 time), which can be challenging if you’re used to simpler time signatures.

How to Approach 6/8 Timing:

1. Instead of counting in six beats, break it into two groups of three (1-2-3, 4-5-6).

2. Identify tied notes and break them down to understand their full duration.

3. Clap and sing the rhythm before playing.

Practice Steps:

1. Count in six to solidify rhythmic understanding.

2. Play with a metronome at a slow tempo, then gradually speed up.

3. Once confident, count in two beats per measure instead of six.

Second Section: Expressive Bowing and Legato Playing

Key Techniques:

• This section transitions to espressivo bowing with smooth, full strokes.

• Maintain long, connected bow strokes for a lyrical feel.

• Use dynamic contrast to shape phrases effectively.

Practice Tips:

• Focus on legato bowing with full bow usage.

• Ensure that articulation remains in the string rather than off it.

• Pay attention to dynamic markings to enhance musical expression.

Brillante Section: Fast and Articulate Playing

• This section builds intensity with quick, detached bow strokes.

• Start with middle-of-the-bow détaché, ensuring clarity and precision.

• Gradually add weight and speed to reach the required dynamic intensity.

Double Stops in the Brillante Section:

• Play in the lower part of the bow for better control.

• Break three-note chords into two-note groupings to avoid muddiness.

Final Measures: Building to the Conclusion

• The ending mirrors the opening but builds into a powerful climax.

• Gradual crescendo into fortissimo, using the full bow.

• Ensure the final G chord is played boldly and confidently.