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“What Child Is This?” is a traditional Christmas carol set to the tune of “Greensleeves.” Since the piece has a flowing, lyrical quality, aim for smooth, connected bow strokes. Use a full bow for longer notes and maintain even pressure. If you’re comfortable with vibrato, use it to add warmth and expression to longer notes. However, don’t overdo it; subtlety is key.
“What Child Is This?” is a beautiful piece that showcases the cello’s rich tone and expressive potential. With attention to bowing technique, dynamics, and emotional phrasing, you can create a heartfelt interpretation. Consider listening to various performances to gather interpretative ideas and discover how different artists approach the piece.
