Left-Hand Techniques in Aldo Pais' La Tecnica del Violoncello: An Electromyographic Comparison

• Other Authors: Galvarino, Jordan Lee (author)
• Format: Others
• Language: English; English
• Published: Florida State University
• Subjects: Music
• Online Access: http://purl.flvc.org/fsu/fd/2019_Spring_Galvarino_fsu_0071E_15150_comp

The purpose of this treatise is to use surface electromyography (sEMG) in a study with human subjects to compare techniques found in Aldo Pais’ La Tecnica del Violoncello. Statistical research regarding the following exercises found in La Tecnica is provided: compressing the hand (avvicinamenti), enlarged extensions (allargamenti), finger independence, and repetitive motions. Data is recorded from the left extensor digitorum and abductor digiti minimi using sEMG, and each subject’s data is compared to one another, in order to reveal these common trends and outliers. Wearing biosensors, six anonymous participants performed two control exercises and four modified versions of Pais’ exercises that each exhibit a specific technique. Participants also completed a short survey at the conclusion of their session, regarding education level and their experience practicing the examples. There was no correlation between education level and sEMG results. Lowered sEMG results result in improved musical performance, and female participants produced lower microvolt ratings than males in every category. Despite their absence in standard cello pedagogy, avvicinamenti and allargamenti produced significantly lower sEMG results than the exercises of finger independence and repetitive motions. This is an important finding because it removes any assumption that Pais’ techniques should be shunned on the basis that they produce an excess of tension. Including these techniques in standard cello pedagogy would expand upon the fingering possibilities available to cellists in numerous musical contexts. === A Treatise submitted to the College of Music in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Music. === Spring Semester 2019. === April 17, 2019. === aldo pais, allargamenti, avvicinamenti, double extensions, electromyography emg, violoncello cello === Includes bibliographical references. === Gregory Sauer, Professor Directing Treatise; Evan Allan Jones, University Representative; Corinne Stillwell, Committee Member; Shannon Thomas, Committee Member.