Skip to content
Cello Repertoire Initiative

Zwitserse Dansen

by Henk Alkema

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Composed
2009
Duration
12'15''
Publisher
Donemus
More by this composer

Purchase or download

About this piece

Zwitserse Dansen (Swiss Dances) is a set of dances for cello and piano by Henk Alkema (1944–2011), composed in 2009 and lasting about 12 minutes. The linked recording, made in Rotterdam in 2009 and posted by the official Henk Alkema archive, is by the cellist Anna Schweizer with the composer at the piano.

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.

Music

Recently AddedThe newest additions

About

Our MissionResource CatalogContributeContact Us