Cello Etudes No. 36 (Op. 20)

Author: He Xian
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2000-04-01
Features: This exercise book has been published in many versions, with some older editions labeled as "Preliminary Exercises for Kreutzer." In his original preface, Kreutzer stated: "To play them perfectly and meet the speed requirements, one must use the same technique as most of the Kreutzer exercises—yet this is rarely noticed." In reality, although many teachers and students now recognize this point, the issue is that when they reach this level of study, they turn their attention to Kreutzer, assuming that since the techniques of most exercises are identical, it might be acceptable to advance to Kreutzer early. As a result, they hastily approach this exercise book, making a significant leap forward. In July 1956, Beijing People's Music Publishing House published this exercise book. The editor wrote in the preface: "Although this book is often regarded as a stepping stone to Kreutzer, learners who master it completely can become well-founded and proficient players, even without further study." This statement seemed reasonable at the time but appears less so today. However, it at least emphasizes the importance of this exercise book for basic training. It is not difficult to see that from exercises 30 to 36, few students can play them at the required speed, and they are often simplified. In fact, these 7 exercises, along with the 11 two-note exercises after Kreutzer's exercise 32, are an indispensable and crucial foundation for every learner. Left-hand techniques such as finger placement, shifting, and double notes will continuously challenge every player throughout their career. Therefore, it is necessary to emphasize once again, especially for those who aim to pursue professional studies, that they should master each exercise thoroughly, one by one. Only with a solid foundation can one advance to new heights in performance.