"Allegretto" means a little lively. This is a violin solo worthy of considerable notice. It begins with an introductions of 7 measures followed by a theme in three step time, after the style of a Mazurka. or Redowa, its chief characteristics being the 4th finger extension (the 4th finger always stretching for F on the A string and C on the E string) and its peculiar accent, produced by different slurs, bowing etc.

In the 1st measure of the theme it is slurred in such a manner that 2 bow strokes complete the measure while in the 2nd measure 4 strokes are used and in the 7th measure one bow stroke plays entire measure, merely stopping for a 16th rest after the 5th note then resuming in same direction for another 16th (as the dot above the note shows) and in the 11th measure playing 5 notes in one stroke without pause, and in the 12th measure playing 5 quarter notes which pause, and in 18th and 19th measure playing 5 quarter notes which have slurs and dots under them with 5 short detached strokes of the bow going in one direction as though they were 8th notes followed by 8th rests, played very quietly and with expression.

The 1st variation follows up this same idea of quie5tlness and smoothness. Dolce-e-express means: softly and sweetly, giving it expression, pay9ing attention to swells and diminuendo marks, the ritards and the 4th finger extension.

The 2nd variation is played with a little more animation. Con anima means: with animation. HTere the variation takes on the character of the Polacca, or Polonaise, another kind of three step with a trace of syncopated time, which gives it a character peculiarly its own: note that the accent falls on the 1st beat of the measure and again by syncopation the accent falls on the last half of the 2nd beat (see C the quarter note).

THe peculiar accent of this three time music makes the Polacca or Polonaise a splendid two step or march although written in 3/4 time.

The 3rd variation - piu moto means: more motion, faster. There's not much to be said about the variation except to caution you to watch the bowing and expression marks and to tell you to play in brisk waltz time.

The 4th variation is to be played quick and with bouncing bow which was explained in other text sheet of this lesson, except that the double dots and the short thick bars across the stems of the notes means that you shall play 1 16th notes for every 8th note written. The bounces twice for each 8th note with a double got under or over it.

Avoid harshness and gradually work it up faster and faster when nearing the end; also increase the volume of tone as you near the finish.

N.B. When writing always mention instrument. Confine your questions to ONE LESSON ONLY. Give name of lesson, number of staff, number of measure, and be brief. Give full name and address.

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© 2003 R. Fingerson
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