The focus of this video is on smooth, legato playing, but first staccato playing needs to be addressed.
As with every instrument, the music must not suffer as a result of the technical limitations of the guitar. Smooth playing must be our aim, in fact, imitating the ability of the voice to soar seamlessly between notes must be our aim. I’m sure lots of guitarists want to emphasise the unique qualities of the guitar (the squeaks, the buzzes and in this case, the silences between notes when plucking), but overcoming the limitations should be a challenge and not result in a hindrance.
The video goes on to put the legato technique into context with the left hand and looks at synchronisation.
I have a gripe with the grade system, it gives a false sense that elementary equates to undemanding. Many experienced players are reluctant to play grade one, two and three pieces as they are too ‘simple’… well, playing the notes may be, but playing them musically with legato is a huge challenge. We can learn a lot by revisiting these pieces; Segovia didn’t only play advanced concert pieces – it’s about how you play them, not the simplicity of the piece. Actually, the simpler the piece, the harder it is in a way, as there is nowhere to hide.
Perfecting the legato of the right hand is essential and will transform playing even the most spartan pieces.
As with every instrument, the music must not suffer as a result of the technical limitations of the guitar. Smooth playing must be our aim, in fact, imitating the ability of the voice to soar seamlessly between notes must be our aim. I’m sure lots of guitarists want to emphasise the unique qualities of the guitar (the squeaks, the buzzes and in this case, the silences between notes when plucking), but overcoming the limitations should be a challenge and not result in a hindrance.
The video goes on to put the legato technique into context with the left hand and looks at synchronisation.
I have a gripe with the grade system, it gives a false sense that elementary equates to undemanding. Many experienced players are reluctant to play grade one, two and three pieces as they are too ‘simple’… well, playing the notes may be, but playing them musically with legato is a huge challenge. We can learn a lot by revisiting these pieces; Segovia didn’t only play advanced concert pieces – it’s about how you play them, not the simplicity of the piece. Actually, the simpler the piece, the harder it is in a way, as there is nowhere to hide.
Perfecting the legato of the right hand is essential and will transform playing even the most spartan pieces.
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