The image and concept of this piece is easiest to describe by using the visual images of the Dutch artist M. C. Escher. He made many woodcuts where the whole surface of the picture has a figurative function often just in black and white. For example a row of white ducks 'transversing' the painting which are described by black ducks transversing in the opposite direction. In this way the two figures describe each other so to speak.In this piece melody has been approached in a similar way: a melody is used which can be framed in rhythmically different groupings - in groups of fours or fives etc- thus creating new hierarchical melodies which grow more and moreobvious to the ear. The initial melody then becomes background to the new melody until disappearing and a new rhythmical pattern is imposed on the second melody and so forth. Later the different 'rhythm melodies' are woven together creating a new perceptual image one that is at the same time actually a 'holographic' reproduction of the initial melody. The latter situation is similar to the way Bach makes hidden 3- or 4-part counterpoints in his Cello suites by intersecting the parts successively into beautifully interwoven patterns.The very static sections of the piece are chiefly inspired by the powerful singing of the buddhist-monks of Tibet who are able to relax their vocal chords to such an extent that they create an overpowering deep note not normally thought to be produced by a human voice. Figure and Ground Study I was first performed by Mats Olofson at the Numus Festival 1995.

Jazz Cello Wizard Junior is designed for beginning and intermediate middle and high school cellists in the tradition of the parent method, Jazz Fiddle Wizard--a break-through approach for String players who want to learn to improvise within the jazz style. No step is left out in this sequentially arranged introduction to the role of rhythm, call and response, articulation, scales, and chord changes in jazz improvisation. The exercises are turned into catchy tunes arranged to work in any configuration of String groups. That is, three-part arrangements for each tune may be played with any number of like instruments or in conjunction with Jazz Fiddle Wizard Jr. and Jazz Viola Wizard Jr. books. Suitable as a self-instruction book or for use in private and/or group String instruction, Jazz Cello Wizard Jr. contains Piano accompaniment parts as well as online audio recording that provides a full rhythm section accompaniment for every exercise and tune. The appropriate tone and style are modeled by the author's performances of more than 50 sample exercises and improvised solos. Includes access to online audio.

This self-teaching method has been carefully designed for beginning cellists. Play Cello Today! features quality instruction starting with the very basics as well as a selection of terrific tunes to play accompanied by audio demonstration tracks. This Cello method can be used by students who want to teach themselves or by tutors for private or group instruction. Simply follow the tips and lessons in the book as you listen to the audio. With Play Cello Today! you'll learn: how to hold and care for the instrument; how to produce a sound; playing tips and techniques; reading music notation and rhythms; how to understand musicalterms and more. Learn at your own pace and open the door to the world of Cello music! Over 100 great songs and examples are included.