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tonebase Viola Course

Bowstroke Fundamentals

Taught by renowned violist

Richard O'Neill

Join world-renowned viola soloist and Takács Quartet member Richard O'Neill in a comprehensive course on bow stroke fundamentals. The course begins with an exploration of the foundational techniques Colle and Martele, followed by practical exercises utilizing Kreutzer etudes to refine these strokes. Finally, O'Neill demonstrates the application of these techniques in standard viola repertoire, providing invaluable insights to enhance your technical proficiency and musical expression.

  • checkmark icon
    Category: 
    skills
  • checkmark icon
    Difficulty: 
    beginner
  • checkmark icon
    Duration: 
    1
     hours 
     hour

Course Syllabus

Collé and Martelé

Join world-famous viola soloist and Takács Quartet member Richard O'Neill as he delves into the foundational bow stroke techniques of Colle and Martele. In this first part of the course, O'Neill provides a detailed exploration of these essential techniques, focusing on their execution, purpose, and role in achieving precise articulation and dynamic control. Through clear demonstrations and insightful explanations, you will learn how to master these strokes, laying a strong foundation for your bowing technique.

Application in Kreutzer Etudes

In the second part of Richard O'Neill's course, discover effective practice methods for Colle and Martele strokes using a selection of Kreutzer etudes. O'Neill guides you through targeted exercises within these etudes, offering practical tips and strategies for incorporating the foundational techniques into your daily practice routine. This section emphasizes the importance of disciplined practice and provides you with the tools to refine your bowing skills through focused and structured exercises.

Application In Repertoire

Conclude your study of bow stroke fundamentals with Richard O'Neill by learning how to apply Colle and Martele techniques to standard viola repertoire. In this final part, O'Neill demonstrates the practical use of these bow strokes in various musical contexts, showcasing excerpts from well-known viola pieces. Through these demonstrations, you will gain a deeper understanding of how to seamlessly integrate Colle and Martele into your performances, enhancing your musical expression and technical proficiency.

Click here to download the course workbook PDF and see the full syllabus →
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Richard O'Neill
meet YOUR INSTRUCTOR

Richard O'Neill

Violist of the Takács Quartet, Richard O'Neill is an Avery Fisher Career Grant recipient, GRAMMY and EMMY Award winning violist.

read full bio →
Richard O'Neill
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