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Cello Repertoire Initiative

The Work at Hand

by Jake Heggie

Instrumentation
Mezzo-soprano, Cello, Orchestra
Composed
2015
Duration
18'
Publisher
Bent Pen Music
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About this piece

Three symphonic songs for mezzo-soprano, solo cello and orchestra (also in a chamber version with piano) on poems by Laura Morefield, commissioned by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Carnegie Hall for Jamie Barton and cellist Anne Martindale Williams. The chamber version was premiered at Zankel Hall on 17 February 2015 and the orchestral version at Heinz Hall on 15 May 2015. The published vocal score (46 pages, $40) includes the cello part; a study score is sold separately and orchestral parts are on rental.

Technical overview

No technical overview is available yet.

Level rubric

Professional

Left Hand

  • Complete command of the fingerboard.
  • Proficient thumb position across all strings.
  • Execute complex double stops and rapid trills precisely.
  • Fast scales and leaps with precise intonation and speed.
  • Apply expressive techniques (portamenti, micro‑adjusted intonation) tastefully.
  • Easily execute false harmonics.

Right Hand

  • Seamlessly blends martelé, spiccato, sautillé, legato & ricochet.
  • Meticulous bow distribution for sustained lines or rapid passages.
  • Clear pianissimo to controlled fortissimo.
  • Economical, efficient bow movement with smooth transitions.
  • Employ advanced effects (ponticello, bow effects) artistically.

Musicality

  • Focus on a deeply personal, communicative performance.
  • Make interpretive choices reflecting deep understanding of form, style & emotion.
  • Convey nuanced phrasing, wide dynamic range & a unique artistic voice.
  • Craft dramatic cadenzas/solos with rubato, tone & expressive timing.

Levels are approximate guides, not strict requirements.

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