Thought Of The Week: “Scales”

Who doesn’t love scales?? Ok just kidding, no one really does….

Whether you are part of the majority that feels kind of “meh” or you are part of the minority that LOVES scales they are an essential part of our life as string players. 

There are many scale systems that exist but the ones that we are most familiar with are the inventions of Carl Flesch and Otakar Sevchik. These systems are both very good in their construction and can garner a strong personal preference or perhaps it was just the scale system that you were taught. 

Playing lots and lots of scales can be helpful in the process of building a consistent left hand technique and improve your intonation accuracy. However, after a while, the routine can begin to feel stale and just downright boring. 

In an age where our brain is constantly seeking new and exciting ways to stay engaged and focused I present to you 3 solutions to revive and reinvigorate your scale practice routine.

1. Play your scales in fun rhythms. 

-Doing this not only makes the scale interesting and perhaps fun? But it also helps work on your internal rhythmic pulse.

2. Play your scales the same way you play your concerto. 

-Make up a musical phrase, experiment with bow speed, be creative!

3. Practice excerpts from orchestral works, concertos or other compositions.

-This may be my most favorite way to practice scales. Not only are your spreading your horizon by playing something new but when you eventually play the piece it is not entirely foreign. Additionally, its a great asset when going back and reviewing works that you have previously played.