​# Developing a Beautiful Tone on the Cello
Achieving a rich, golden sound on the cello relies heavily on developing proper tone production techniques. Tone is the foundation of musicality, and understanding how to initiate and follow through with a bow stroke is crucial.

*Initiating the Bow Stroke*
Think of starting a sound on the cello like beginning a word with a consonant, followed by a vowel. For example, "K-aaaaa". To achieve this, focus on initiating a clean, crisp consonant sound.

*Exercise: Producing a Clean Consonant*
1. Start by playing a down bow on each string, focusing on making a sharp "k" sound.
2. Draw small counter-clockwise circles above the string with your bow, landing on the string with a down bow.
3. Grab the string with the bow hair, then release.
4. Repeat this motion multiple times.
5. Reverse the motion, making each stroke with an up bow.

*Adding the Vowel Sound*
Once you're comfortable producing a clean consonant, add a smooth vowel sound to the bow stroke. This will create the full "K-aaaa" sound.

*Tips and Variations*
- Practice this exercise on each string, paying attention to the different feels of resistance.
- Experiment with varying bow speeds and pressures to achieve different tonal colors.
- Focus on maintaining a consistent tone quality throughout the bow stroke.

I've had the privilege of witnessing my friend's profound passion for the cello, despite the physical challenges she's faced, including  chronic pain and tendonitis. Her unwavering dedication is a testament to the transformative power of music.

As I glance at the scores in her studio, I notice the meticulous markings – tiny arrows pointing up and down – a reminder that the pursuit of perfect intonation is a lifelong journey. But rather than being discouraged by this reality, my friend's approach inspires me to reframe my own relationship with the cello.

Instead of striving for perfection, we can focus on the joy of discovery, embracing the imperfections that make us human. By letting go of self-criticism, we can liberate ourselves to truly enjoy the process of learning and growing as musicians. My friend's example reminds me that the journey of artistic exploration is just as valuable as the destination, and that every moment spent playing the cello is an opportunity to celebrate the beauty of music.

​Finding the right music teacher for your child can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, you can make an informed decision. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect music teacher for your child.

When searching for a music teacher, consider the following factors:

1. *Qualifications and Experience*: Look for a teacher with a strong background in music education and performance. Ask about their experience teaching children of your child's age and skill level.
2. *Teaching Style and Philosophy*: Understand the teacher's approach to instruction. Do they emphasize technique, music theory, or exploration of different genres? Ensure their philosophy aligns with your child's learning style and your goals for their musical education.
3. *Lesson Structure and Curriculum*: Inquire about the typical lesson structure. Ask how much time is spent on scales, pieces, and other elements, and whether they provide a clear curriculum or tailored lesson plans.
4. *Progress and Evaluation*: Regular assessments and feedback are crucial for your child's growth. Ask the teacher how they measure progress and what methods they use to provide feedback.
5. *Practice Expectations*: Understand the teacher's expectations for practice outside of lessons. A good teacher will offer guidance on effective practice strategies to maximize your child's progress.
6. *Communication and Support*: Effective communication is key to a successful teacher-student relationship. Ask how the teacher keeps parents informed about their child's progress and any areas that need improvement.
7. *Compatibility and Rapport*: The best way to evaluate a teacher is to see them in action. Consider scheduling a trial lesson to assess the teacher's compatibility with your child.
8. *Studio Policies*: Understand the logistical details, including policies on cancellations, makeup lessons, and fees.

By considering these factors and asking the right questions, you can find a music teacher who inspires and motivates your child to cultivate a lifelong love for music.

Thought this would be a fun lesson to teach quintuple meter for cellists, violinists, or anyone!

For more information read: http://www.tribalmusicasia.com/SAA%20Article-Songs-of-m-optim%20.pdf

The Ivory Ban and Traveling with your Instrument or Bow

As you may have heard, JFK International has taken seven bows from violin players in the Budapest Festival Orchestra and then released them four days later for a fine of over $500...

Though there is an ivory ban, The US Fish and WIldlife Services had declared weeks ago that bows bought before February 2014 containing ivory are allowed into United States.

How can the confiscation of your instrument be avoided & what does this mean for string players?

According to the most revised set of rules for traveling into the US with bows containing ivory, you may bring the bow into the US if :

1. The ivory of your bow was legally acquired before February of 1976
2. The instrument was not sold or bough for profit after February 2014
3. Person or group traveling with the instrument has a cites certificate
4. A CITES musical instrument certificate/CITES document is present when traveling with the instrument.

Rules for obtaining a CITES certificate if your are planning on traveling:


   1. Know how long your CITES certificate is valid for, the cost to apply for it is $75 in the US.

   2. You must get the certificate in the country that you are currently living in

   3. It can take up to two months to obtain a cites certificate. To speed up this process because you are in a hurry, speak with a CITES official . 


IMPORTANT: You must call to inform US Fish and Wildlife at least two or three days prior to your date of inspection. You will need a photo of the bow, fully filled out 3-77 paper, appraisal describing your bow, and the CITES certificate. 


For more information visit the american league of orchestras web page: http://americanorchestras.org/advocacy-government/travel-with-instruments/endangered-species-material/protected-species-travel-tips.html

Good Luck!

According to the article, a child with dyslexia needs to be in a learning program 
that is organized, methodical, using scaffolding techniques building off of what the 
student already knows, cumulative, and multisensory. Because students with 
dyslexia usually struggle with reading and learning notation as well, the Suzuki 
approach can be very beneficial to them. As the article states, the method is 
cumulative and students learn by ear. As a Suzuki cello teacher myself, I know that 
Suzuki students are always learning something new and also may be previewing 
techniques to a new piece. At the same time, in and outside of lessons, they are working on a piece at their current level, and also reviewing old pieces that they already know. I think this is very beneficial to the self-esteem of the student to be working on and performing something they already know rather than just constantly plowing onto something new. To be able to play, on a whim, a piece that one sounds great on definitely will build confidence in their abilities as a player and also foster their love for the instrument and music making. As the article states, self-esteem is something that a student with dyslexia may struggle with and having a polished piece to play is a definite confidence builder. The use of repetition and positive reinforcement of what was done well before offering criticism are two important teaching tools that Suzuki teachers use to also keep the student’s self-esteem intact.
Here is a link to the article:
http://www.jennymacmillan.co.uk/Music%20and%20dyslexia%20for%20ASJ.pdf