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Prelude

by Katherine Balch

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Composed
2018
Duration
10'30''
Publisher
Schott Music (ED 30359)
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About this piece

A single-movement duo for cello and piano, about ten and a half minutes long, commissioned by Young Concert Artists during Katherine Balch's residency there. In her note, the composer says it was written to lead attacca into Brahms's Cello Sonata in E minor, Op. 38, though it can also be played on its own. Cellist Zlatomir Fung and pianist Tengku Irfan, its dedicatees, gave the premiere at Merkin Hall, New York, on 19 February 2019.

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.