Project Spotlight: Bach to Basics, by Antonio Lysy
Bach to Basics, by Antonio Lysy | A practice guide for the Bach Cello Suites
Remembering Antonio Lysy
The music world recently suffered a great loss when acclaimed cellist Antonio Lysy passed away unexpectedly. “The Heifetz Institute joins the worldwide music community in mourning the loss of the cellist and pedagogue Antonio Lysy, who passed away after a brief and sudden illness. ‘Tonino,’ as he was known to his friends and colleagues, aimed to showcase the versatility of the cello’s voice, from Baroque to electric, performing in projects which illustrated his diverse interests in music (www.heifetzinstitute.org).” Antonio Lysy was a member of the Heifetz faculty, as well as an international soloist and chamber musician. He not only inspired audiences and colleagues with his artistry, but also taught at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music for 20 years, sharing his infectious love of music with his students and influencing thousands of young musicians.
I was fortunate enough to be a member of Antonio Lysy’s private cello studio while studying at UCLA as a graduate student. Antonio’s approach took my playing to a new level, as he focused on style and techniques needed to highlight each composer’s unique voice. He approached technique as a vehicle to bring the composer’s intentions to life. For example, to create a resonant tone in Bach he explained how to get the bow moving faster by using the upper arm, and to bring power to Beethoven he emphasized the importance of bow placement, depth into the string, and rhythmic precision. Before studying with Antonio my playing was consistent and my technique was strong, but with his guidance I learned to approach each composer’s works with a unique lens.
His recent endeavor Bach to Basics is a monumental project which dissects Bach’s solo cello suites and guides students in how to prepare them. Antonio’s kindness and aptitude are present in every moment of this incredible series. It is advantageous for all string players to watch Antonio Lysy in action. While cellists can directly benefit from his teaching of the suites, violinists, violists, and bassists can similarly find value in his approach by applying these lessons to their repertoire. Bach to Basics, by Antonio Lysy | A practice guide for the Bach Cello Suites is available free on YouTube. It is a playlist composed of tutorials on every one of the movements in the Bach Cello Suites—yes, 36 movements!
Antonio Lysy left a legacy for every musician who has known him personally and professionally. And through this YouTube series, he has given a gift to current and future string players seeking a refined, educated approach. You will always be missed and valued, Tonino!
Bach to Basics, by Antonio Lysy | A practice guide for the Bach Cello Suites:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyn87jq6KsQyNhFVdLBJ2hL_ioxQ0G72g
Celine Gietzen, March 2024
Photo courtesy of www.antoniolysy.com