Defining an Israeli school of cello pedagogy and performance through an analysis of the teaching of Professor Uzi Wiesel

Abstract

This research enquiry seeks to define a contemporary Israeli school of cello pedagogy and performance that has evolved out of numerous influences, and particularly the teaching of Wiesel. In analysis of the elements that define this school, a survey of the components that comprise Israeli cello playing is achieved. This adds to the body of knowledge, as this branch of cello pedagogy has not previously been investigated to this extent. The researcher used the Grounded Theory method to analyse and collate interviews from important cellists connected to the Israeli school. A questionnaire format was employed, which addressed the scope of issues concerning cello playing which help to define a school. These responses were analysed in juxtaposition with more detailed responses and source material from Wiesel. Important works on cello technique and literature that connect to Israel’s pedagogical development are also discussed in support of the argument for a distinct school. While opinions on cellistic matters varied between participants, most cellists displayed significant application of Wiesel’s methods. These results aided this researcher’s thesis that a distinct school of Israeli cello pedagogy and performance can be defined, and is in thriving existence.