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The Woods (for April Gornik)

by Bruce Wolosoff

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Composed
2013
Duration
6'47''
Publisher
Bruce Wolosoff Music (ASCAP), distributed by Subito Music
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About this piece

A single-movement piece for cello and piano from 2013, inspired by The Woods, a charcoal drawing by Wolosoff's friend, the painter April Gornik. It was first called for April, and in that form it was issued as a digital download with Gornik's book of drawings; it was later revised and renamed. Sara Sant'Ambrogio and the composer recorded the revised version on the album Paradise Found (Avie, 2022).

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.