Technique:
This level 3 piece offers extensive work in developing im alternation, string crossing and reading various rhythmic combinations. The piece is in three sections. Each section features either a slowly building crescendo or a slowly fading decrescendo. All players will play bass notes in one of the sections. The score includes specific instructions for locating the notes, but it is also helpful to teach the bass notes by rote.
Don’t get bogged down in explaining the intricacies of a given rhythm. Repeatedly provide an accurate model for students and use the notation as reinforcement. The repetitive harmonic elements provide students room for expression through subtle rhythmic interplay, dynamics and tone color.
Cultural Connections:
This piece builds on ideas from modern classical and popular music. The succession of harmonies is a play on the song Idioteque from the Album “Kid A” by Radiohead. Idioteque is built on a four chord sample from the composer Paul Lansky’s Mild und Leise, which takes its name from the opening line of Richard Wagner’s famous Liebestod. Students are welcome to propose and vote on alternative titles that reflect thoughts and feelings evoked by this music.