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Cello Repertoire Initiative

The Sheku Kanneh-Mason Cello Collection

by Sheku Kanneh-Mason and Various · arranged by Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Simon Parkin and Oliver Weeks

Instrumentation
Cello, Piano
Composed
2021
Publisher
Faber Music (ISBN 0571541976)
More by Sheku Kanneh-MasonMore by Various

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About this piece

The first sheet-music book from the British cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason (Faber, 2021) collects 14 pieces he plays, for solo cello or cello and piano, each with his own notes on interpretation. It mixes classical favourites (Fauré, Rachmaninoff, Casals, Paradis), his own arrangements (No Woman, No Cry; Blow the Wind Southerly) and two original compositions, Melody and Theme and Variations. Three pieces are set on Trinity's Grade 6-8 cello lists, making it a source of exam-ready repertoire for advancing students.

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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