Scan 84
The American history and encyclopedia of music, 1910
12 lines. Read by computer on 9 September 2026. Printed page 56. See the scan on archive.org.
1by fastening or fitting a small clasp or device called a mute (sordino) on the bridge of the violin, which results in deadening, to some extent, the vibrations and changing the tone. The mute may be made of wood, bone or metal, those made of ebony being preferred as they do not so completely muffle the tone so that all vibration is destroyed. The tonal effectiveness of this device is so well known that there is hardly need to dwell upon it. Bewitching and soothing at the same time, it quickly loses its charm when its use is over-indulged in.
3SULLA TASTIERA.—This term of expression is used to indicate that instead of playing with the bow in its usual place, half way between the fingerboard and the bridge, the playing is to be done directly over the fingerboard. This results in the tone becoming less clear and brilliant, partaking of a subdued, dolce and flute-like character.
5PONTICELLO.—This implies playing with the bow as near the bridge as possible. The effect is uncanny, very restless and the tone quality is of a hard, glassy unresponsive nature (as far as the vibration of the string is concerned).
7THE TREMOLO.—This, in a measure, reproduces the same restless effect as the ponticello, probably owing to the shortness of the stroke preventing the string from giving full and free vibration. Very little bow is to be used, the motion to be produced by the wrist without any use of the arm.
9COL LEGNO.—This bizarre bowing is met with almost exclusively in orchestral works. The stick of the bow is slapped against the strings, producing a grotesque effect.
11PIZZICATO.—This is picking or plucking the strings with the fingers of either hand. It is most commonly played by the first finger of the right hand, the thumb resting against the end of the fingerboard. The second finger, however, is also employed, some players using both alternately. In rapid passages this mode is certainly to be recommended.
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