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A Broken Foot

by Nelly LiPuma

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Composed
2013
Duration
6'
Publisher
Universal Edition
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About this piece

A six-minute piece for cello and piano from 2013, which Universal Edition sums up as 'a funny game with a painful end'. LiPuma wrote it during six weeks of forced immobility and dedicated it to her friend Brigitte Duschel, who supported her during that time. It was premiered by cellist Anna Veselova and pianist Francisco Rico.

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.