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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Song without words

by Gillian Whitehead

Instrumentation
Cello
Composed
2014
Duration
2'
Publisher
SOUNZ
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About this piece

A two-minute solo piece written to mark Helen Young's move from Wellington to Auckland; Young, long-time manager of Radio New Zealand Concert, was a champion of New Zealand music. Whitehead wrote it so it can be played on violin, viola or cello, and the score exists in three separate versions. The cello version was first performed by Rolf Gjelsten at a private function in Wellington on 2 February 2014.

Technical overview

No technical overview is available yet.

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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