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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Moving Day (for cello and marimba)

by Philip Carlsen · arranged by Philip Carlsen

Instrumentation
Cello, Percussion
Composed
2016
Duration
2'50''
Publisher
American Composers Edition (American Composers Alliance)
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About this piece

Philip Carlsen's own arrangement for cello and marimba, published in 2025, of the duo he wrote for his son's wedding in 2016 (the cello-and-piano original is listed separately). The marimba keeps up an ostinato in 9/8 throughout, felt as three short beats and one long (2+2+2+3), the rhythm of the Bulgarian dajčovo horo. The cello opens pizzicato and then takes the arco melody.

Technical overview

No technical overview is available yet.

Level rubric

Late Intermediate

Left Hand

  • Master positions up to 7th.
  • Use 5th–7th positions for high notes; early thumb position basics.
  • Learn treble clef for 4th, 5th, 6th positions.
  • Practice complex shifting with guide‑finger techniques.
  • Manage upper extensions; play double stops (thirds, fourths, sixths) with consistency.
  • Use continuous, selectively applied vibrato.

Right Hand

  • Develop advanced bow strokes: deliberate ricochet & controlled up‑bow staccato.
  • Execute quick string crossings & precise chord articulations.
  • Achieve wide dynamic range while maintaining tone.
  • Seamless transitions between spiccato and legato.
  • Execute multiple stops/chord rolls rapidly.

Rhythm & Musicality

  • Increased complexity: fast passages, intricate syncopation.
  • Detailed phrasing & structure; shape long phrases with rubato.
  • Combine expressive dynamics, vibrato & precise bowing techniques.
  • Further refine ensemble sensitivity & leadership.

Levels are approximate guides, not strict requirements.

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