Working with a violoncellist

[vis]

I am about to start working with a cellist on a Beethoven sonata. I have never worked in an ensemble before so I'm somewhat anxious. Is there anything I should know about working with a cellist? Any tips? Any special lingo they use?Would it be appropriate to make comments or suggestions to him about his phrasing and dynamics of his part or is that inappropriate?

[Motrax]

I had a similar experience half a year ago, playing Rachmaninoff's Cello Sonata. First and foremost, don't be afraid to be expressive. You want to make a good impression on the cellist in a technical way, but don't let that stop you from producing music.

Secondly, looking at the cellist helps. Play with the metronome and figure out where you vary the tempo, so you can inform the cellist and get to work on those spots right away.

Your first time probably won't be very good, no matter how much you've practiced the piece. Don't worry about that - it's more important to get a general idea of ensemble playing than getting all the notes right the first time.

Good luck!  

[JK]

Make sure you know the piece before you play it, that is listen to a cd of it. This will help you know how the cello part fits with the piano. You also have to listen to each other, this is more important than looking at each other. Also feel free to suggest ideas but its probably best not to seem to be forcing ideas on the cellist, instead you can ask questions like, do you think we should take time there, or, how do you think we should phrase this. Most of all enjoy it, playing chamber music is one of the most enjoyable things you can do!