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Cello Concerto

by Jessica Krash

Instrumentation
Cello, Orchestra
Composed
2017
Duration
16'
Publisher
Composer (self-published)
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About this piece

A concerto of about sixteen minutes for cello and small orchestra, dated 2017 in the composer's work list; Tanya Anisimova gave the premiere with the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra under James Ross in November 2018. The Washington Post review of the premiere notes the reduced scoring (limited strings, single woodwinds, horn and trumpet) and describes the piece as a series of fantasy landscapes, with bluesy turns, hints of Latin rhythms and a wistful slow movement.

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.