Freelance Cellist and Teacher
Jennie Khan is an Auckland based cellist and cello teacher. She has a variety of experience performing both here and in Europe and has been teaching students of all ages for many years.
This summer I had a few gigs, in itself nothing extraordinary. But I've been doing so much orchestral playing, that I forgot how much I dig playing in smaller groups. If there is a great spark between the musicians, it will set up a vibe for the event that everyone will love.
Read MoreMost classical musicians will learn to read music before or in parallel with learning their instrument. But it can be quite challenging, there are so many new and unfamiliar things to be thinking about. So, sometimes it gets lost, the theory bit that is. Many, especially the younger ones, just want to get on with the 'fun' bit - Playing. But as with many things, without some theoretical foundation, most people will be limiting themselves in the long run.
Read MoreWhen we really listen to music, we are paying attention, it's not just going on in the background while we think of what we are having for tea or ticking things off the To Do list. We notice the rhythm and harmonies, changes in key or tempo.
When you are playing the music, you must be aware of all these things as well as create them.
It takes concentration...
Practice is an interesting thing, there are good ways and bad ways to do it, there are also different opinions on what is the best way. I came to the realisation over the last 12 months or so that I needed to brush up on my practice technique and give it the time that it needed. Practice is as much psychological as physical, keep bringing your concentration back to what you are trying to achieve. Only practice as long as you can maintain your full attention on the notes you are working on...
Read MoreThe foundations of the intonation that we hear is somewhat intuitive, it depends a lot on one's musical exposure. Listening to most western music, be it popular or classical, these combinations of sounds, intervals and chords will sound 'right' to your ear. If however you listen to a lot of jazz or world music your ear will likely be more attuned to different types of harmonies.
Read MoreHaving a good ear is crucial for all musicians. There are a lucky few who have perfect, or absolute, pitch. I am related to at least one of these people, but unfortunately, I was not lucky enough to inherit that particular gene. So, like most, I have had to learn to develop 'relative pitch'.
Read MoreThe intention of this blog is to share my experiences, ideas and advice to help you to become a better musician. To share techniques and philosophies on how you can improve your playing both physically and mentally.
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