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Question for Violists and Cellists - Forced Shifting

Question about sheet music with a shift inserted for the sake of adding a shift.

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Mouse

March 2, 2023 - 12:38 pm

Member Since: July 8, 2021

Forum Posts: 518

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I am working on a piece that the lesson book seems to have added a forces shift, for the sake of shifting, on a cello song. It is just plain awkward. It does not belong there. I have done shifting. I was thinking I should just do it the way it does not feel forced so that I can concentrate on the bowing and use other pieces, where shifting is necessary, to re-enforce shifting.

It is holding me back because it is just awkward. I am not hesitant to do shifting, I like shifting down the cello, or up the viola, but it does not belong here. I am not taking lessons, I am learning on my own, but started shifting while taking lessons.

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The Bumble Bee Flies

Please ignore any typos. My typing ability on a real typewriter did not transfer to these device key pads.

wtw

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Regulars

March 4, 2023 - 5:25 am

Member Since: January 13, 2019

Forum Posts: 97

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I wouldn't force it if you don't see the point - if it doesn't help with the fingerings in that passage, or to avoid an open string, or something.

In an exercise dedicated to shifting, it would be normal, but not in a piece/tune…

Is it the first time it happens in this book : other shifts/fingerings usually make sense?

Mouse

March 5, 2023 - 8:37 am

Member Since: July 8, 2021

Forum Posts: 518

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Thanks. It really isn't a necessary shift. I have done songs that I don't know and will automatically put a shift in because it just seems right and feels right, ie avoid open string that needs to be played on a fingered string. This just not feel that way.

I kept at it because I don't like to dodge trouble spots, I like to work them through because then I will know what to do in the future. I was not sure if that was the case here. It never feels right and I did not even do the shift until I noticed the marking. So, I think I will skip it.

They have added odd things in other songs, occasionally, not often. I am going to do it the way it feels right to me. I am playing for my own benefit and by myself anyway.

Thanks, wtw. Your questions about it helped me think it through.

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The Bumble Bee Flies

Please ignore any typos. My typing ability on a real typewriter did not transfer to these device key pads.