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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Salat Babilya (Babylonian Prayer)

by Zoë Martlew

Instrumentation
Cello
Composed
2008
Duration
4'45''
Publisher
Schott Music (ED 13546)
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About this piece

A short unaccompanied piece played entirely without the bow, composed in 2008 and premiered by Martlew at the Banff Centre in Canada. Its sound world imitates the Iraqi oud, drawing on Arabic scales, ringing open strings, harmonics and ornaments. The composer explains that the title (Arabic for 'Babylonian Prayer') comes from an oud piece written to help lull the children of Baghdad to sleep during bombing raids. It has been recorded by several cellists and suits players looking for a pizzicato-only contemporary solo.

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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