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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Dance Suite

by Dennis Alexander

Instrumentation
Violin, Cello, Piano
Composed
2013
Publisher
Alfred Music (00-40782)
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About this piece

Dennis Alexander wrote Dance Suite for piano, violin and cello as a commission from the Music Teachers National Association, and it was premiered at the MTNA Conference in 2013 [1]. It has two movements: an Introduction and Tango, then a Valse Brillante that takes up the first melodic notes of the tango [1][2]. Alexander taught piano pedagogy at the University of Montana for 24 years and has more than 400 publications with Alfred Music [3]. Alfred rates the trio Late Intermediate [1].
  1. alfred.com
  2. content.alfred.com
  3. alfred.com

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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