Skip to content

You and I, Op. 55

by Elena Firsova

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Composed
1992
Duration
10'
Publisher
Boosey & Hawkes (print on demand; Sikorski in some territories)
More by this composer

Purchase or download

About this piece

A single-movement duet for cello and piano (Andante) of about 10 minutes, written in 1992 and subtitled 'Duet for cello and piano'. It is dedicated to the cellist Bernard Gregor-Smith and pianist Yolande Wrigley, who gave the premiere on 18 May 1994 at the Crucible during the Sheffield Festival.

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.