Roy, A. - String Quartet Technique

The use of scales, arpeggios and etudes in the training of an instrumentalist has been described as fundamental, essential and indispensable. While the training of a string quartet is certainly as demanding and challenging, the shortage of etude material and publications available to string quartet musicians who wish to perfect their craft makes the task more arduous. Over time, I have developed specific exercises for the very gifted quartets I have been privileged to teach. The following is a compilation of intonation and articulation exercises aimed at helping string quartets develop their full technical  potential and thus enabling them pursue their artistic endeavors. - André J. Roy

String Quartet Technique consists of a main book, plus four individual volumes for some of the given exercises: 1st vln, 2nd vln, viola, cello. The main book is broken up into two parts:

• Part 1: Intonation Exercises (30 pages)
  • The work on intonation in a string quartet is based on a careful, indissoluble blending of each of the four independent voices. Through a rigorous set of scales, arpeggios and circle of fifths (with clear explanations on the work to be executed), the string quartet will be able to define its own collective intonation and obtain homogeneity of timbres and equality of voices.
• Part 2: Coordination Exercises (23 pages)
  • These progressive exercises are designed to enhance the quartet members’ abilities to respond to one another with the greatest of precision. Through each group of exercises, the leading responsibility is given alternatively to each member of the Quartet. Five groups of exercises (A-E) are given with clear explanations on the workto be executed. Two arrangements of Kreutzer etudes are also given for experienced quartets who wish to greatly increase their coordination dexterity.Individual volumes: To facilitate execution, the Circle of Fifths exercises and the Kreutzer etudes, have been reproduced in individual volumes for each instrument (20 pages per volume).

“This book has established the fundamental technique in our quartet playing. We use it every day.”  - CALIDORE QUARTET

“An indispensable tool. The secret to the success of a string quartet.” - QUATUOR VAN KUIJK