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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Moon Over Appalachia

by Oliver Caplan

Instrumentation
Cello
Composed
2011
Duration
14'51''
Publisher
Composer (self-published)
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About this piece

A four-movement suite for unaccompanied cello inspired by the folk music of Appalachia. The movements are "Pumpernickel & Cheddar", "Twinkletoes & Rainbows", "Midnight" and "Storytime". Boston cellist David Russell recorded it for an EP that Caplan released in November 2015, where the suite lasts just under 15 minutes.

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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