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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Lacrymae

by Bruce Wolosoff

Instrumentation
Cello Ensemble
Composed
2020
Duration
4'30''
Publisher
Bruce Wolosoff Music (ASCAP), distributed by Subito Music
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About this piece

Lacrymae is a short, slow piece for four cellos, which can also be played by a larger cello ensemble. Wolosoff wrote it in 2020 for Inbal Segev's "20 for 2020" project, in which she commissioned twenty composers to respond to that year. Segev's recording appears on the first volume of the project's album series on Avie Records (2021) and was also released as a single.

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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