December, 2006-January, 2007

We start rehearsing a lot during this period. The guys have finally finished their concerts with Andy so it's time to break me in on the other rep. There are also pieces that are new to everybody which need to be rehearsed.

One thing I really admire about each of the guys in the LAGQ is their commitment to making the music sound as good as possible. In rehearsal, that translates into being very open-minded about differing ideas and opinions, but also very direct with each other about what works and what doesn't. Each person in the group has opportunities to contribute his opinions and requests; and each person is understanding if/when an idea of theirs is voted down.

One piece on the docket is Brandenburg Concerto number 5 by J.S. Bach. Although this is a piece the guys have performed hundreds of times, they haven't done it in years, so it's an opportunity for new ideas. The guys come to rehearsal with very specific thoughts on phrasing, articulation, tempo. After a few rehearsals of trying different ideas out, we end up with a fresh interpretation featuring energetic tempos and a lightness of touch in the fast movements, and some new ideas on articulations in the slow movement.

Everyone in the Quartet has exceptional ears and is masterly at rehearsing an ensemble. I notice that John, in particular, has a propensity for hearing the music like a producer - he listens remarkably objectively, taking in the whole Quartet sound for evaluation. He is always focused on musicality, and that's obvious when you listen to him play. Whether he's blasting through virtuosic runs, or holding down the bass groove, or sensitively playing a delicate melody, John adroitly supplies what the music needs.