How should we articulate early music on modern instruments?

The following extract is from The Strad’s May issue Technique feature. To read it in full, click here to subscribe and login. The May 2021 digital magazine and print edition are on sale now

So many students can do amazing things on the violin, but not enough really understand what the music requires of them. I encourage students to look at the score of any piece that they learn, to be really aware of the different voices – especially the bass-line – and how they fit within the big picture. As teachers we can find a way to open their awareness to harmonic structure, whatever their age or standard. Once they understand the music’s structure, what they appreciate about it and what about it they would like to share, they will be able to take their playing to an entirely new level. As their teachers we should be able to understand the most realistic and natural solutions to help each individual, and to leave room for flexibility depending on what type of musician they want to be. Would they prefer to focus on historical performance practice, modern playing, or are they going to go in a different direction? There is no check box to say ‘complete’: it’s a never-ending process.