Quantz of the Week: 6 June 2010

 Is it time for the next week of Quantz already? 

OK, this will be the last group of pieces to focus exclusively on FLAT keys. Number 40 in Ab (if you are using the facsimile, this should show the first measure in A and then the first measure again in Ab), and number 29 in F, 2/4, for those still getting used to the idea that FLAT keys are fun, and, for those seeking to combine FLAT keys, embouchure flexibility, and variety of articulation, number 18 in F (Capricie III).

And, FYI, there WILL be a quiz on all of these Quantz pieces in flat keys at the boot camp. That means you might actually be asked to play them while Janet and I stare at you and scrutinize every finger motion and embouchure twitch. 

Not that we nitpick or anything . . .

Changing the pads on your flute

Over the past 6 months, I've noticed the keys on my flutes make a sticky sound. Every time I pressed the key, I would get some extra percussive noise. I tried first to clean them. Rod Cameron suggested acetone (nail polish remover) to clean the pad, but that didn't work. I finally contacted Janet See to find out what to use as pad material. Neoprene was the answer! Neoprene can be ordered from kayak shops. Since there aren't any kayak shops in Dallas, she sent me some from her local shop.

It was quite easy to change the pad. I pulled the old pad off and used a small file (found at any hardware store) to take off the excess pad material and glue (which was minimal). I cut the neoprene to the appropriate size and applied contact cement to the key and neoprene. After it was completely dry (10-15 minutes), I pressed the neoprene onto the key. Voila, my flutes are now percussion free!

Brain Bender

Baroque Flute Brain Bender: Monteclair's IVe Concert Dessus et Basse. 

• "La Melancolique" (Bb) 
• "La Tenebreuse" (h)
• Chaconne (Bb)

Your brain will get bent switching between Bb and h (b-minor for the US contingent). Lots of embouchure action and relaxation of fingers.

Practice Journal: A break from relaxing to concentrate on tuning

 A brief respite from the Quantz Capricen finger relaxation exercises we've been doing: Number 14, Minuetto in Bb (3/4), and number 18, Capricie III in F (C).

Yes, the goal of the previous Quantz etudes is to relax the fingers and see how little they need to move and how soft they can be while playing the pieces. The two new numbers are also for relaxing but also for helping you tune certain intervals between particular notes which may or may not be cooperative under the best of circumstances. 

"If it were easy, anyone could do it." 

Practice Journal: Suggested Quantz Capricen

Number 31, in Bb, 6/8

Number 32, in c, 2/4

Number 38, in Eb, 3/4

Number 37, in Bb, 6/8

The goal is to be relaxed and hands free of tension. DO NOT think about tempo. Yet. 

This is preparation for numbers 39-41. 

kp

Official Notice

FYI: I am practicing EXCLUSIVELY in flat keys until June 15. That may or may not mean anything in terms of the workshop agenda in July (yeah, right). Just thought I'd share that bit of information. 

12th Annual Baroque Flute Boot Camp 2010

The 12th Annual Baroque Flute Boot Camp in Seattle, Washington, July 25-31, 2010.

Faculty:

Baroque Flute

Kim Pineda and Janet See

Assisted by

Gus Denhard, theorbo, baroque guitar, and continuo ensemble

Don Simons, harpsichord, workshop accompanist

In 2010 the Baroque Flute Boot Camp (BFBC) takes place from July 25-31. The BFBC is open to baroque flute players of all levels. We are very supportive and encouraging to those new to the baroque flute. For the advanced players we offer a stimulating and challenging environment (we throw down the gauntlet and challenge you to pick it up).

The BFBC offers predominantly flute instruction and technique by day, with smaller group classes, large and small ensemble playing, and technical clinics by night. Participants also have time to meet in smaller groups on their own to work on various types of ensembles, with and without coaching. Enrollment is limited to 16 flute players, and 4 lute/guitar players. Players of other continuo instruments such as Baroque cello, viola da gamba, or Baroque bassoon are welcome to enroll. Please contact the workshop director for details on the curriculum for these instruments.

The BFBC gives you the chance to work hard under close supervision. What to expect at the Boot Camp:

• Your instructors will push you out of your comfort zone to improve your playing technique.
• Expand your knowledge of baroque style and interpretation.
• Integrate this by playing in small groups, large groups, and in the class recital.
• Learn how to lead, accompany, play together, and learn the difference.
• Gain confidence in a non-competitive environment.
• Group classes in Alexander Technique as it relates to playing your instrument
• Fundamentals of baroque improvisation (it comes in handy!)
• Have fun in the process.

N.B.--This is a PROCESS-oriented, not goal-oriented, workshop.

All you need is a positive attitude and a baroque flute or continuo instrument that plays at a=415 Hz.

For more information go to Baroque Northwest's workshop link.