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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Jasminarie, Op. 45a

by Konstantia Gourzi

Instrumentation
Cello
Composed
2011
Duration
3'
Publisher
Composer (self-published)
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About this piece

A short piece for solo cello, about three minutes, based on the Cypriot song 'Jasmine'. Gourzi made this version of her soprano-and-tarhu duo Jasminarie (Op. 45) as an overture for the 11 September 2011 premiere of her work time zero in Munich, marking the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks; Anja Lechner played the premiere. The cellist plays the eight written bars and then, on the repeat, improvises freely on the theme, so its length can vary. The composer suggests it as an encore or as an interlude between two other solo pieces.

Technical overview

A slow, rubato melody (quarter note = ca. 46) in changing meters, moving from bass clef into treble clef up to B-flat on the A string, with turns, glissando slides between notes and long slurs. The repeat asks the player to improvise on the theme.

Technical focus

  • Rubato
  • Meter Changes
  • Tempo Changes
  • Hairpin Dynamics
  • Shifting
  • Legato
  • Articulation
  • Accidentals

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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