Foundations for an effective warmup. Paul Katz with Hayden Idson.

Tips on a Warmup & Practice Routine

Use warmups to awaken your ears – the ears control everything.
Use warmups to loosen, stretch and breathe. The world’s finest athletes warm up in this way and so should we.
Use warmups to get in touch with the instrument. The cello is your friend, so tune in on how it’s feeling – what does it need?
Do not become dependent on a set, never-changing warmup or practice routine.
Mix up your practicing routine – beware of rote and rituals.

Have I stretched? Loosened? Am I limber?
Am I in touch with the instrument, sensitized to the feel of the cello?
Is my listening alert?
Am I aware of my breath, in particular, the exhale?
Am I able to “settle”, to release arm weight? Or are my shoulders up and my weight suspended?

The warming up process should change with your present needs. Ask, what do I need today?
Is my focus and concentration sharp?
Am I developing and expanding my listening awareness?
Avoid establishing a daily ritual. Rotate repertoire in ever-changing orders.
Do not become dependent on a warmup routine.

You are only as good as your ears.
Consciously open your ears, expand your listening to take in all aspects of the sound of the instrument.
Sharpening your listening awareness during warmups can carry into your practice session.
Consciously connect your ears to your hands.

About

Paul Katz is known for his 26-year career as cellist of the internationally acclaimed Cleveland Quartet; as a world-renown teacher…

"Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results." -Albert Einstein

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