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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Cello Concerto

by Mason Bates

Instrumentation
Cello, Orchestra
Composed
2014
Duration
25'
Publisher
Aphra Music (Mason Bates)
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About this piece

A 25-minute, three-movement concerto (Con moto – Grazioso – Con moto; Serene; Léger) written for Joshua Roman and premiered by him with the Seattle Symphony under Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla in December 2014. It was co-commissioned by the Seattle Symphony, Columbus Symphony and Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra. Unlike much of Bates's orchestral music it uses no electronics, but the orchestra includes a large percussion section with kalimba, vibraphone and hi-hat, and the writing draws on blues and club rhythms. In the composer's note, the soloist at one point plays with a guitar pick in the energetic finale.

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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