All Focus articles – Page 11
-
FocusIs it a real Stradivarius? How to check the authenticity and value of a violin
A reader has inherited an old Italian violin, in this case a Landolfi. In fact, finding a violin in a grandparent’s attic is some people’s first introduction to the stringed-instrument world. What’s the next step regarding authentication?
-
FocusDiscovering Ysaÿe’s lost sonata
In 2017 violinist Philippe Graffin discovered a previously unknown three-movement work by Eugène Ysaÿe: his original Sixth Solo Violin Sonata. As his recording of the piece is released, he speaks to Chloe Cutts about completing the composition.
-
FocusArabella Steinbacher's top 5 practice tips
The German violinist shares her personal favourite practice habits
-
Article8 ways for violinists to improve posture
Advice for violinists from The Strad's pages on establishing a relaxed and stable posture for optimal performance, and avoiding strain and injury
-
FocusSentimental work: Gautier Capuçon on Schumann
The French cellist finds a whole universe of sound in Schumann’s Adagio and Allegro and the op.73 Fantasiestücke – as well as huge scope for experimentation
-
FocusLife Lessons: 3 questions for Hilary Hahn
Adrenalin can be helpful, says the American violinist, but you should never forget the true reasons for performance
-
FocusBruno Philippe on the attraction of gut strings
This month, young French cellist Bruno Philippe releases his first album as an official Harmonia Mundi artist. In this extract from our February cover story, he chats with Charlotte Gardner about the merits of gut strings
-
FocusDiscovering Bartók, Ligeti and Kurtág in 3 seminal works
Casals Quartet violist Jonathan Brown chooses three key chamber pieces by the giants of Hungarian music
-
FocusWhat repertoire should you play for your first recording?
Choosing the repertoire for your first album isn’t easy. Charlotte Gardner talks to those in the recording business about how to make an informed decision.
-
FocusCharlie Siem's top 5 practice tips
Ahead of his performance at Cadogan Hall, the violinist shares his knowledge
-
Focus10 tips for a successful conservatoire audition
Mark Messenger, head of strings at the Royal College of Music, reveals what conservatoire audition panels are looking for
-
FocusPostcard from Munich: the 2018 ARD International Music Competition
The viola and piano trio category winners of the Munich event demonstrated an exceptional level of maturity and insight, writes Chloe Cutts
-
FocusBaiba Skride's top 5 practice tips
The Latvian violinist, whose American Concertos CD is reviewed in our January issue, shares her wisdom
-
BlogsHow do you start a symphony orchestra in India?
Kazakh violinist Marat Bisengaliev, the Symphony Orchestra of India’s co-founder and music director, describes how Bollywood strings adapted to classical music
-
FocusThomas Albertus Irnberger: 5 reasons to play Martinů
To tie in with our review of his Martinů CD, the violinist explains why he loves the Czech composer’s music
-
FocusThe 'Four Circles' system of violin making
Luthier Kevin Kelly explains his ‘Four Circles’ system for instrument design, adaptable to violins, violas and cellos
-
FocusFrom the archive: Technique or tone?
This article from The Strad, September 1954, argues that the trend among students of pursuing mechanical brilliance at the expense of beauty of tone is misguided
-
FocusLloyd Swanton on the art of free improvisation
As double bassist of Australian trio the Necks, Lloyd Swanton is an expert in group improvisation. He speaks to Andy Hamilton about maintaining creativity, and making contemporary improvised music accessible
-
Focus6 recording tips from Daniel Müller-Schott
The German cellist reveals some of the practical and artistic conditions he got right for his new album of Russian repertoire
-
FocusThe Jubilee Quartet’s 4 top tips on practising as an ensemble
Ahead of their upcoming debut album release, the members of the Jubilee Quartet let us in on their working methods
