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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Poème "Lacs de Finlande", Op. 66

by Sonja Béets

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Composed
2016
Duration
4'20''
Publisher
Association La Grange des Arts (composer's own imprint); sold through the composer's website
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About this piece

A lyrical poème for cello and piano of about four and a half minutes, written in April 2016 as an impression of the Finnish landscape. The cello opens alone, legato in a flowing Andante con moto in 12/8, before the piano joins. It was first performed by cellist Jonathan Roozeman with the composer at the piano, and in 2024 she made a trio version adding viola (Op. 66 bis).

Technical overview

A sustained legato melody in 12/8 that climbs into treble clef (to about A4) within the first page, with dotted figures, a trill, chromatic inflections and a change to 9/8.

Technical focus

  • Legato
  • Shifting
  • Accidentals
  • Rhythm
  • Hairpin Dynamics
  • Meter Changes
  • Collaboration with Piano

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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