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Tripartita

by Dawn Avery

Instrumentation
Cello
Duration
7'45''
Publisher
Dawn Avery
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About this piece

Tripartita is a three-part work for solo cello by Mohawk (Kaniènkeha) composer and cellist Dawn Avery. Cellist Wilhelmina Smith recorded it on Sweetgrass, an album of Avery's music for cello alone and for cello and voice, released on Azica Records on 27 June 2025 and produced by Judith Sherman. On the recording the three parts last about 2:52, 2:25 and 2:27, about 7:45 in all. Only Smith is credited as performer on the Tripartita tracks; Avery is credited as a performer only on the album's tracks with voice.

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.