String Quartet Ensemble Techniques Explained on the Basis of the First Movement of Haydn’s String Quartet in D minor, Op. 42

Abstract

This thesis discusses some of the ensemble techniques necessary for string players to be able to practice more effectively and to perform string quartet repertoire more convincingly: what to prepare for the rehearsal; how important it is to train harmonic intonation; how to perform dotted and syncopated rhythms more accurately; how to improve bowing and vibrato techniques; how to achieve good sound balance and benefit from reading from full scores as opposed to individual parts. This study also presents a phrase rhythm analysis of the first movement of Haydn’s String Quartet in D minor, Op. 42. The study is intended for undergraduate students who major in string instrument performance and specialize in string quartet chamber music. Some of the techniques discussed here also apply to repertoire from other style periods such as Romantic and contemporary string-quartet literature. The purpose of this study is to help string-performance majors not only to enhance their ensemble skills but also to prepare them for a career in music performance.