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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Spell Cycle

by Wilma Pistorius

Instrumentation
Cello
Composed
2018
Duration
10'
Publisher
Donemus
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About this piece

Spell Cycle (2018) is a solo cello work by Wilma Pistorius. The cellist Maya Fridman included it in Rituelen, her Cello Biennale Amsterdam programme of pieces inspired by spells, invocations and the magic of nature. The linked video is NPO Klassiek's recording of that whole concert; Spell Cycle is the fifth of its seven pieces.

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

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