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Dreammusik

by Lera Auerbach

Instrumentation
Cello, Other
Composed
2014
Duration
34'
Publisher
Sikorski (Boosey & Hawkes) - rental
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About this piece

A one-movement concerto, about 34 minutes long, for solo cello and a nine-player ensemble: flute/piccolo, oboe/cor anglais, clarinet/bass clarinet, percussion, piano, violin, viola, cello and double bass. Sandra Tillisch Svoboda commissioned it in memory of her husband for cellist Ani Aznavoorian and Camerata Pacifica, who premiered it in Los Angeles in March 2014. In a GetClassical interview, Aznavoorian contrasts it with Auerbach's more virtuosic works, saying it is "more about texture and color." Boosey lists it as Dreammusic.

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.