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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Sonata for Solo Cello No. 1

by Bertus van Lier

Instrumentation
Cello
Composed
1931
Publisher
Donemus
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About this piece

Bertus van Lier, himself a cellist who studied with Max Orobio de Castro and composition with Willem Pijper, wrote this solo sonata in 1931 and dedicated it to Piet Lentz; Donemus published it in 1947. The linked recording, from the Leo Smit Foundation, which promotes music by composers persecuted during the Nazi era, is by Nieuw Amsterdams Peil in the Uilenburgersjoel, a former synagogue in Amsterdam; there it is titled Sonatine voor cello solo (1931).

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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