Ricci on Glissando: The Shortcut to Violin Technique

In his book on left-hand violin technique, Maestro Ruggiero Ricci addresses common problems in shifting by advocating the study of the glissando technique. He asserts that re-incorporating this technique will not only aid violinists in developing a better-trained ear, but also provide them with "shortcuts" to playing some of Paganini's most difficult passages.

Ricci introduces and compares old and new systems of playing to provide a context for the glissando system. He outlines a series of glissando scales that provides the student with a blueprint for developing additional glissando scales in other keys. He offers exercises designed to increase flexibility, ear training, coordination, and crawling technique and has included a DVD in which he demonstrates various bowing techniques.

Ruggiero Ricci, in a career spanning more than 75 years, has played more concerts and produced more recordings than any violinist past or present. Ricci became the first violinist to record the complete Caprices of Nicolò Paganini in their unadulterated form in 1947.

Gregory Zayia is an amateur violinist and longtime aficionado of the artistry of Ruggiero Ricci.