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Passion Prayers

by Augusta Read Thomas

Instrumentation
Cello, Other
Composed
1999
Duration
9'
Publisher
G. Schirmer (Wise Music Classical)
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About this piece

A nine-minute "micro-concerto" (the composer's term) for solo cello with flute, clarinet, violin, piano, harp and percussion. It was commissioned by Philadelphia's Network for New Music, which premiered it on 11 April 1999 with Scott Kluksdahl as soloist and Jan Krzywicki conducting; Thomas dedicated it as a tribute to Kluksdahl's lyrical playing. The piece runs without a break in three loose sections, moderate, slow and fast.

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.