The Cello, Bow and You Approach

The Cello, Bow and You Approach is a comprehensive perspective to playing that I developed which brings to the player's awareness the properties of the cello-string (CELLO),  the bow (BOW) and basic facts of movement (YOU) that are often overlooked when learning to play.

The synthesis of you, your bow, and your cello must also include your musical imagination and interpretation. Taking a closer look at these seemingly obvious properties of the cello and the bow, and our natural way of moving often makes the difference between good playing and great playing. 

My CBY Approach to the cello includes application of the Alexander Technique, bio-mechanics, and  traditional  studies with the prominent teachers of my generation including Bernard Greenhouse and Zara Nelsova.

My 40+ years performing in the New York Philharmonic provided the invaluable opportunity to have worked with  the great conductors as well as  time honored soloists.  It also  provided a vast music making experience that has greatly influenced my musical interpretations of the cello repertoire.  

​In our working together, I will bring these perspectives to help you develop your skills and coordination based on what you actually need to  happen when you play. ​​

Possible Offerings For Cello Study

Private Lessons
Individual lessons @ $200 for 90 minutes
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Lessons To Address Specific Technical Challenges
For accomplished cellists seeking further refinement of their technique, I ask you to take one 90 minute session for us to meet and discuss any challenges you're currently experiencing in your playing, and to explore some new ideas that have potential solutions. We will then schedule three 30-minute lessons within two weeks to integrate new ideas.

Initial introduction @ $200 for 90 minutes.
Follow-up mini lessons @ $200 for three 30 minute lessons paid for and scheduled in advance, to be taken within 2 weeks.

​Here are some possibilities for working together in mini-lessons: a specific aspect of bowing technique (such as detaché, sautillé, or changing directions), shifting, intonation, excess tension in the left hand. 
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Audition Preparation
 Study and prepare for orchestral auditions. Explore the usual and customary excerpts with discussions of a variety of fingerings, bowings and interpretations.  Discussions of the demanding and unusual conditions of an audition, such as  honing focus under pressure, managing nerves, and playing any excerpt exceptionally well the first time. 
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