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Cello Sonata in D minor, Op. 38

by Emilie Mayer

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Composed
1873
Publisher
Bote & Bock, Berlin (1873); reprint Furore Verlag (fue 10353)
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About this piece

One of only three cello sonatas Emilie Mayer had published: Bote & Bock in Berlin issued it in 1873 together with the C major Sonata, Op. 40, about ten years before her last sonata, Op. 47. Her autograph is considered lost, so the first edition is the only source; the German Wikipedia list of her works gives a dedication to her nephew, Dr. Wilhelm Bertuch. It is a different piece from the undated D minor cello sonata that survives in manuscript in the Berlin State Library, and Furore Verlag has issued a reprint.

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.