Studying Stephane Grappelli

March 8, 2012, 2:54 AM · It wasn't so much the notes as it was the bowings that captured my ears over the last several days. Having no visual demonstration to guide me as I transcribed his A Minor Swing, I listened, played it back, and listened again. He uses his bow as an annunciator, speaking the phrases in scat, slurring and jabbing to create his consonants and vowels. Transfixed, I cleared my mind and tried to imagine what I would do if I were to play like him. The results? My latest transcription, available for public scrutiny and further improvisation. Email me if you would like a copy, and remember to adjust my edits to suit your liking. Above all, be true to the expression.



Replies

March 8, 2012 at 02:12 PM · Thanks so much for posting the Grappelli/Reinhardt. I love to listen to them. What you are doing is a wonderful way to learn the techniques.

March 8, 2012 at 04:36 PM · Thanks for the transcription!

March 8, 2012 at 04:50 PM · Wonderful! :-)

March 8, 2012 at 06:01 PM · thank you it is really wonderful.

I have not any experience on playing the Grappelli music but i want to start i play traditional Iranian violin and classical music . how to start it in Iran i have no any sheet music on this kind of music. please guide me on this way

thank you Emily

my email is sinceritywine@gmail.com

March 8, 2012 at 10:11 PM · Might take a little bit for me to get back with everyone. I write as I sit here at the Anchorage International Airport, getting ready to board flight 870 to Honolulu. (I'm going to go kick my heels in the air now...)

March 8, 2012 at 11:26 PM · Have a safe and fun trip. We'll look forward to getting the music when you return.

March 9, 2012 at 12:50 AM · Wonderful, love the way they all go "ar yeah" at the end!

March 9, 2012 at 01:10 AM · This is great! I'm very interested in a copy if you can send me one: michelemedina104@gmail.com Have a fun trip!

March 9, 2012 at 04:52 AM · Have a great trip to Hawaii!

March 9, 2012 at 06:41 AM · Great job Emily! I've been listening to this music my whole life and playing it most of my life, and think you did a really nice job of capturing a classic grappelli solo.

March 9, 2012 at 12:56 PM · Grappelli is one of my all time favourite musicians. I'm impressed by what I can see of your transcription in the image in your post and I would love a copy.

March 9, 2012 at 08:49 PM · Sigga, click on my name and send me a message so that I can send it to your email address.

Thanks to all of you who read my blog and requested a copy of my transcription of A Minor Swing! I just now sent the file to all who responded, so if you didn't get your copy yet and still want one, let me know (I tried to get everybody, but sometimes I miss someone.)

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