Skip to content
Cello Repertoire Initiative

Cello Sonata No. 1

by Sem Dresden

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Publisher
Donemus
More by this composer

Purchase or download

About this piece

Sem Dresden's Cello Sonata No. 1 is a three-movement work whose French markings (Modérément animé; Tranquille et légèrement soutenu; Vif et impétueux) reflect the French Impressionist influence on his music. Dresden directed the Amsterdam Conservatory from 1924 to 1937 and was a leading figure in Dutch musical life. In the linked video, recorded at the Bimhuis in Amsterdam for VPRO, Doris Hochscheid and Frans van Ruth play the second movement.

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