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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Union

by Elizabeth Start

Instrumentation
Cello
Composed
2006
Duration
3'
Publisher
Self-published (RCM code 'EST'); contact the composer
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About this piece

Union is a three-minute piece for unaccompanied cello that the Kalamazoo cellist-composer Elizabeth Start wrote in 2006 'for Jon and Mary Beth', according to her works list. It is one of the few original solo-cello pieces by a living American woman on the RCM syllabus, set at Grade 7. Start plays in the Kalamazoo Symphony, has premiered over 100 works and has written a large body of music for her own instrument.

Technical overview

No technical overview is available yet.

Level rubric

Late Intermediate

Left Hand

  • Master positions up to 7th.
  • Use 5th–7th positions for high notes; early thumb position basics.
  • Learn treble clef for 4th, 5th, 6th positions.
  • Practice complex shifting with guide‑finger techniques.
  • Manage upper extensions; play double stops (thirds, fourths, sixths) with consistency.
  • Use continuous, selectively applied vibrato.

Right Hand

  • Develop advanced bow strokes: deliberate ricochet & controlled up‑bow staccato.
  • Execute quick string crossings & precise chord articulations.
  • Achieve wide dynamic range while maintaining tone.
  • Seamless transitions between spiccato and legato.
  • Execute multiple stops/chord rolls rapidly.

Rhythm & Musicality

  • Increased complexity: fast passages, intricate syncopation.
  • Detailed phrasing & structure; shape long phrases with rubato.
  • Combine expressive dynamics, vibrato & precise bowing techniques.
  • Further refine ensemble sensitivity & leadership.

Levels are approximate guides, not strict requirements.

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