Paganini Project Update.

 The backstory:

On March 31st 2022 I started a project that is planned to cover 4 months (but this could easily be extended). The plan is to learn to play (hopefully well) Niccolo Paganini's 24th Caprice for solo violin. This caprice has a theme and then 11 variations. It is said to be one of the hardest violin pieces to play. I'm now on day 17 of this challenge. 

Progress:

I'm endeavouring to practise over two hours a day (I'm aiming for three, but haven't got there yet, though I do get to 2 1/2 hours) and to make my practice meaningful. I'm keeping my jazz practice up but I'm devoting a lot of time working on techniques that appear in the caprices. I practise double stops in 3rds, 6ths, octaves and tenths. I practise scales and arpeggios all over the fingerboard. I practise the high range notes. I think about bowing and I pick out problems in each caprice so that I can start solving the difficulties they present. I can get through variations 1, 2 and 3 pretty well but a lot more practice needs to be put into them yet. I tried using a shoulder rest again for a few days but got rid of it. While some things are a little more tricky without it, I feel under less strain and I'd dare to say that some things even feel a bit easier. While this is a daunting adventure, it is made worthwhile when hurdles are crossed.

The future:

I now have 3 1/2 months left, though more time will be added if needed. This project has given more meaning to my practice and, if the goal can be achieved, that will be a great reward. Paganini was a fascinating chap. I've listened to modern renowned players talking about him and playing his music and have picked up a few tips there. Long live his memory!

May The Blessed Curmudgeon bless you all.

Sheesh!