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Cello Repertoire Initiative

50 Measures for Aaron

by Lisa Bielawa

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Composed
2009
Duration
7'
Publisher
Composer (self-published)
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About this piece

A seven-minute piece for cello and piano, commissioned by Aaron Jay Kernis's family for the composer's 50th birthday (15 January 2010). As the title says, it lasts exactly 50 bars, all in 5/4 at a tempo of quarter note = 50. Bielawa's note says it seems to tell a story, but that she means it less as a portrait of Kernis's life than as an invitation for listeners to remember what different ages of their own lives felt like. Joshua Roman and Evelyne Luest gave the premiere at Symphony Space, New York, on 19 November 2010.

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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