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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Contemplation

by Elizabeth Maconchy

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Composed
1978
Duration
10'
Publisher
Chester Music (Wise Music Classical)
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About this piece

A single-movement work of about ten minutes for cello and piano, commissioned by cellist Rohan de Saram and pianist Douglas Young in 1978. The publisher's programme note describes one continuous span of related ideas. A quiet, stepwise opening is repeatedly cut off by a summoning chord. Faster, Tranquillo and vigorous sections follow, and the piece ends calmly.

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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