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A fourth circle

by Hanna Kulenty

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Composed
1994
Duration
20'
Publisher
Donemus
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About this piece

A Fourth Circle (1994) by Hanna Kulenty is a 20-minute work for violin, viola or cello with piano, commissioned by the Fonds voor de Scheppende Toonkunst and dedicated to the violinist Krzysztof Bąkowski and the pianist Aleksandra Krzanowska. It is one of a series of four Circles that Kulenty wrote in the 1990s.

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.