Held Fast is a level 5 piece intended to teach students descending slur technique. Slurs can be a really tricky skill to develop on the guitar for a number of reasons, especially descending slurs. It can be difficult to execute descending slurs so that the second pitch in the figure “speaks” and we hear the second note clearly. It can also be challenging to coordinate the new feeling of performing a note on the guitar without using a right-hand finger to pluck the string. For these reasons, it’s important to take it slow and introduce this technique with intention and care for every student.

Students should be confidently executing all technical and literacy skills from levels 1-4 in order to begin Held Fast. Left hand position and technique is crucial for descending slurs. Be sure to cue left hand position frequently throughout rehearsal in order to ensure that students learn this new technique correctly.

Held Fast can be played together with Gift of Fire as a two-movement work. Both pieces teach slurs and have a thematic through line of strength, power, and resolve.

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