6 Micro Study 1 – open string patterns

Overview

Etude no. 6, like etude no. 1, is powered by the RH. So the first micro study has made clear the main RH patterns, using open strings. Please note that pattern 1 has quite a few variations to it, in terms of which notes Villa-Lobos selects out of the first chord, it is not always all six strings – see full score.

I have opted not to use bars 6 to 14, or bars 21 to 24, as you will get enough practice in the actual study, and the RH generally stays on a set of strings for the duration of each.

Micro Study 1

Practice each bar on its own, as written, until it is secure. The first line is section 1’s RH pattern, the second line is section 2’s patterns.

Top tips here are:
• Clean RH planting action
• Movement from the large knuckle
• Practice fluid Thumb movements
• Use sequential planting with the repeating bass line (more stability)

Due to the repetition in this study the micro studies covering the chords, and
RH, are going to be short and sweet. And the second half of the piece, which is an
exact copy of the first will not be covered entirely unless there is something that
needs closer inspection.

Please note: the music (stave) in the following micro studies has been augmented
to half speed, for clarity and ease of reading all those chords.