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Question

December 10, 2007 at 7:38 PM

I wonder, what technical and musical aspects I would need to know in order to conquer Vaughn Williams Lark Ascending by Summer other than a solid foundation in playing octaves?

If I recall correctly from doing it a while ago, you need to be really comfortable with notes high on the E string. You would do well to listen to a couple of recordings to get some idea of what interpretive issues arise. It is a showpiece, with all that implies.
Search for Janine Jensen's interp. on youtube for one example--there are several there.
Thanks Tom and Albert. I just finished a 3 hour practice session. I feel so satisfied. I do not see myself hitting a plateau, but if I do...
JR, it seems like there's a Hilary Hahn version over there too--I may be wrong.
Having played the piece frequently, I do have to agree with all of the comments here - particularly with that about playing high notes on the E string.

One thing definitely, for the inner self - poise...this is definitely a piece during which one's temperament can not overrule, as the overall "tone" of the piece is introspective...a bit melancholy. It should all be very peaceful - not without energy, but peaceful - and thinking about that will definitely benefit you overall.

As far as recordings: I personally recommend those by Christopher Warren-Green (on the Virgin Classics "Purple Label", disc is titled Music for Strings by Vaughan Williams and Elgar) - very free in the cadenzas, it actually sounds like a bird - and Iona Brown with the Academy of St. Martin-In-The-
Fields.

And, of course - read the complete poem, which is beautiful. If you'd like I can send it to you.

Sam

Good luck! This will be a joy

Greetings,
yep. Warren Green and Iona Brown is and was pretty much the best players around in Britain . Fantastic recordings.
Cheers,
Buri
Thanks everyone.

Yes please, Mr. Thompson. I would love to read the poem...

Jasmine - You're MORE than welcome, and it's SAM...or SAMUEL....but having grown up in the south, I do thank you... =)

Yeah, Iona Brown and Christopher Warren-Green, some really interesting and amazing playing from the two of them.

Thank you, Samuel. Of course George Meredith wrote it! So beautiful.