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Cello Repertoire Initiative

diepenveen

by Yaz Lancaster

Instrumentation
Cello
Composed
2020
Duration
7'30''
Publisher
Score available from the composer
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About this piece

Yaz Lancaster wrote diepenveen in 2020 for the Halifax-based cellist India Yeshe Gailey, as a piece for a cellist who sings while playing. The sung text is Lancaster's own poem of the same name from their collection small forms (2017), which dwells on small changes that pass unnoticed: a breeze and shadows moving through a willow tree, a car light fading. Gailey gave the premiere at St George's Round Church in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on 13 May 2022, and recorded it on her album to you through, released the same day.

Technical overview

Seven to eight minutes for a single performer who plays the cello and sings at the same time.

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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