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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Saiten des Herzens, Op. 60

by Olga Magidenko

Instrumentation
Cello
Composed
1998
Duration
10'
Publisher
Furore Verlag
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About this piece

An unaccompanied cello piece inspired by the German saying 'Du zerreißt die Saiten meines Herzens' ('You tear the strings of my heart'), meaning 'you torment me.' The music sets out to portray that emotional torment and draws on lines by the poet Dagmar Schumann about tears falling like stars and unrequited love. It was premiered in Heidelberg on 25 February 2001. This is an expressive contemporary solo work from a composer trained at the Moscow Conservatory under Aram Khachaturian.

Technical overview

Contemporary notation, double stops, improvisation

Technical focus

  • Bow Control
  • Double Stops

Level rubric

Late Intermediate

Left Hand

  • Master positions up to 7th.
  • Use 5th–7th positions for high notes; early thumb position basics.
  • Learn treble clef for 4th, 5th, 6th positions.
  • Practice complex shifting with guide‑finger techniques.
  • Manage upper extensions; play double stops (thirds, fourths, sixths) with consistency.
  • Use continuous, selectively applied vibrato.

Right Hand

  • Develop advanced bow strokes: deliberate ricochet & controlled up‑bow staccato.
  • Execute quick string crossings & precise chord articulations.
  • Achieve wide dynamic range while maintaining tone.
  • Seamless transitions between spiccato and legato.
  • Execute multiple stops/chord rolls rapidly.

Rhythm & Musicality

  • Increased complexity: fast passages, intricate syncopation.
  • Detailed phrasing & structure; shape long phrases with rubato.
  • Combine expressive dynamics, vibrato & precise bowing techniques.
  • Further refine ensemble sensitivity & leadership.

Levels are approximate guides, not strict requirements.

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