Good way to lead sectionals?
I'm the concertmaster in my highschool orchestra, which means that I'm in charge of leading sectionals for the first violin section. I know the basics of how to lead a sectional, like getting the bowings and fingerings ready beforehand and working on rhythm, pitch and dynamics. The problem is that our section doesn't seem to be unified, like people don't seem to care. Theres some people that try hard and want to work together, but the rest don't put in any effort. Is there anything I can do to make the first violin section more like a team and increase enthusiasm? Any help is greatly appreciated! Thanks!! :)
Replies (4)
I agree with Alice. It is not your job to be a motivational speaker for your section.
Know your music well and lead by example. Be open for any questions and suggestions.
Learn first names of your group members.
Work closely with other section leads and the conductor.
Get familiar with the score, in particular 2nd violin, viola, cello and double-bass parts.
As a concertmaster, I lead sectionals before every concert, as well as sectionals for the local youth orchestra.
Yes, it's hard to motivate people. For a high school, that job should probably be left to your teacher, who can have people play their parts for a grade. You may not be in position to have that kind of authority yet, but you can tell your teacher who seems to be "phoning it in." In the youth orchestra, it's easy to see who is prepared and who is faking it. But one has to be careful because some have good teachers and some have none.
I try to fix many things: articulation, fingerings, bow usage, rushing/dragging, etc.
In your case, what might be valuable is the simple act of taking your section through tough sections slowly. Many professional conductors consider themselves above that sort of thing (and many will do it when necessary), but actually, I think it really can help at any level.
Marie, it's very difficult when you're still at the school yourself to get other pupils to "buy in" to what you're trying to do. At that age, in youth orchestras etc., sectionals are usually taken by an experienced pro that the kids WILL listen to.
Devious suggestion - if your teacher is an orchestral player, and the school would fund it, could you arrange a sectional with him/her?
He/she would obviously be primed with "follow your concertmaster at all times", "watch the way Marie does it" etc. which would make it much easier for you to take subsequent ones - sort of this experienced pro delegating to you.
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September 18, 2014 at 06:41 PM · Just be enthusiastic and keep the energy level high. Plan out your time beforehand and keep them busy. Don't worry too much about each individual's commitment, that is too much to take on. Believe me, the problem of the lackadaisical first violin section is not exclusive to high school orchestras. If necessary, the conductor can kick some butt, but the job of the section leader is to be a supportive advocate for their section.