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Cello Repertoire Initiative

G-lude

by Zoë Martlew

Instrumentation
Cello, Electronics
Composed
2021
Duration
8'
Publisher
Composer (self-published)
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About this piece

A solo cello piece with optional electronics, commissioned by Spitalfields Festival for its 2021 'Bach Rework'd' series and written as a response to the Prelude of Bach's Cello Suite No. 1 in G major. Shrieks, scrapes, gasps (including written-in breathing) and distorted overtone clouds trace the harmonic outline of Bach's original, and the piece ends quietly with the Prelude's opening chords in harmonic pizzicato. Martlew wrote it during the pandemic as a working-out of her relationship with the cello, and her recording was released by NMC in 2025 on Album Z.

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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