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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Capriccio

by Violet Archer

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Composed
1981
Duration
8'
Publisher
Canadian Music Centre (unpublished; CMC print, call no. MI 3213 A672ca)
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About this piece

Violet Archer's Capriccio for cello and piano (1981, about eight minutes) was commissioned by cellist Claude Kenneson and premiered in June 1981 at Wigmore Hall, London. The Canadian Music Centre holds the unpublished score (23 pp.) and cello part.

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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