Backwards Chaining by Simdawg Lyrics
Backwards chaining is a rehearsal procedure designed to cultivate a technically proficient and expressively convincing performance
The practice fosters a deeper appreciation for the structure and inherent expressivity of a composition
This rehearsal procedure us best applied to a selection that has been moderately well-learned. The ensemble should be able to reliably run the selection from beginning to end with a good level of accuracy and requisite style
The backwards chaining procedure begins by targeting and refining the end(typically last few measures) of a composition (or significant excerpt). Typically through multiple repetitions, intense focus is drawn to all elements of performance. These elements may include intonation, rhythmic precision, pronunciation, text inflection, dynamics, tone, blend and balance. Emphasis is also placed on cultivating a deeper understanding of the expressive context and function for each "link" of the "chain."
Literally working backwards, a preceding structural event is used as a starting place for the performer or ensemble. Again, intense focus is drawn to a wide array of performance concerns and due emphasis is continually placed on the development of an expressively effective interpretation
A preceding structural point is again used as a starting point. Depending of the skill of the performer or ensemble, mastery may require multiple repetitions at each step of the process
This rehearsal technique has many notable benefits:
The performer(s) build a natural confidence into their execution of a performance and can enjoy the sensation of always moving toward increasingly familiar material
The designation of significant structural as starting points instills a deeper understanding of the composition's form
The overall process is an excellent aid to memorization
Beyond the considerable payoff in terms of technical refinement and interpretive understanding, backwards chaining has proven to be one of the most effective and efficient ways to use rehearsal time
The practice fosters a deeper appreciation for the structure and inherent expressivity of a composition
This rehearsal procedure us best applied to a selection that has been moderately well-learned. The ensemble should be able to reliably run the selection from beginning to end with a good level of accuracy and requisite style
The backwards chaining procedure begins by targeting and refining the end(typically last few measures) of a composition (or significant excerpt). Typically through multiple repetitions, intense focus is drawn to all elements of performance. These elements may include intonation, rhythmic precision, pronunciation, text inflection, dynamics, tone, blend and balance. Emphasis is also placed on cultivating a deeper understanding of the expressive context and function for each "link" of the "chain."
Literally working backwards, a preceding structural event is used as a starting place for the performer or ensemble. Again, intense focus is drawn to a wide array of performance concerns and due emphasis is continually placed on the development of an expressively effective interpretation
A preceding structural point is again used as a starting point. Depending of the skill of the performer or ensemble, mastery may require multiple repetitions at each step of the process
This rehearsal technique has many notable benefits:
The performer(s) build a natural confidence into their execution of a performance and can enjoy the sensation of always moving toward increasingly familiar material
The designation of significant structural as starting points instills a deeper understanding of the composition's form
The overall process is an excellent aid to memorization
Beyond the considerable payoff in terms of technical refinement and interpretive understanding, backwards chaining has proven to be one of the most effective and efficient ways to use rehearsal time