Taught by renowned guitaristÂ
David Leisner
Internationally acclaimed artist and professor David Leisner dives deep into selected works from Villa-Lobos' iconic set of 12 Etudes.
Etude No. 12
In this lesson, David Leisner shares his technical philosophies in the context of Heitor Villa-Lobos’ Etude No. 12. Techniques addressed include producing loud, yet relaxed repeated chords, effortless barres, and percussive rasguedos. All of these techniques follow Leisner’s belief in emphasizing freedom of movement over economy of motion, a concept that is further defined in his book, Playing With Ease.
Etude No. 8
David Leisner demonstrates sections from Etude No. 8 by Heitor Villa-Lobos. Working primarily from the 1928 Villa-Lobos manuscript, Leisner points out discrepancies in the published edition and explains why he generally prefers the manuscript over the edition. Along with these musical ideas, Leisner also shares his thoughtful approach to technical aspects such as achieving effortless barres and slurs.
Etude No. 1
David Leisner breaks down the first of Heitor Villa-Lobos’ famous Twelve Etudes.
The lesson begins with Leisner’s thoughts on the importance of working from the 1928 manuscript. This is followed with a detailed look at the mechanics of first the left and then the right hand. In addition, Leisner discusses his approach to slurs, harmonics, and bar chords.
Etude No. 10
David Leisner continues his series on Heitor Villa-Lobos’ twelve Etudes with this lesson on Etude No. 10.
Working off the 1928 manuscript, Leisner begins by pointing out some of the discrepancies found in the published edition, starting with the opening “Anime” marking. He continues the lesson with a demonstration of the proper movement for the pull-off and hammer-on passages featured throughout the piece. To conclude, Leisner clears up a common rhythmic error found at the end of the piece.
Etude No. 2
David Leisner teaches Etude No. 2 from his series on Heitor Villa-Lobos’ 12 Etudes.
In the first half of this lesson, Leisner covers the primary musical and technical considerations students should make when learning this piece. Then in the second half, he shares exercises you can try for eliminating neck tension and relaxing your “gaze,” both important aspects for making complex pieces such as this one feel more effortless.
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Unlock Course →“Among the finest guitarists of all time” David Leisner is known for his top competition prizes and heading the guitar department at the famous Manhattan School of Music.
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