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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Three Question Marks

by Eric Lacy

Instrumentation
Cello
Composed
2011
Duration
5'13''
Publisher
Eric Lacy
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Cover of Three Question Marks
Cover courtesy of Eric Lacy

About this piece

Three Question Marks for solo cello combines expressive, lyrical melodies with dramatic chordal passages, balancing technical challenge with musical freedom. The piece conveys a serene and uplifting emotional atmosphere, inviting both performer and listener into a reflective space.

Technical overview

Double and triple stops, thumb position, treble clef, 32nd notes, meter changes. For further technical analysis, please preview the sheet music on the composer's website ericbrianlacy.com

Level rubric

Advanced

Left Hand

  • Unrestricted fingerboard operation.
  • Effortless high‑register passages with thumb position.
  • Execute large leaps, rapid shifts & fast runs with precise intonation.
  • Render double stops with clarity and even vibrato.
  • Crisp, stylistically appropriate ornamentation (trills, turns, mordents).
  • Instinctive micro‑adjustments in intonation for expressiveness.
  • False harmonics in low positions

Right Hand

  • Complete command of all bow strokes at any tempo/dynamic.
  • Comfortable execution of virtuoso passages (sautillé, intricate ricochet).
  • Tone projection from whisper‑quiet to fortissimo.
  • Integrate advanced bow patterns with expressive phrasing.
  • Demonstrate technical precision with a broad dynamic range.

Rhythm & Musicality

  • Interpret large‑scale structures with nuanced pacing and rhythmic freedom.
  • Highly refined phrasing with subtle note grouping & expressive rubato.
  • Convey emotional depth and stylistic authenticity.
  • Incorporate personal interpretive choices while meeting stylistic demands.

Levels are approximate guides, not strict requirements.

Music

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