Study 1
Study 1 for Solo Cello
This is the first in a planned series of 10-15 studies, focusing on specific instruments and compositional techniques.
With this first one, I wanted to modernize the overall sonic landscape. I have broken through my old tendency toward sectional structuring and traditional time signatures in multiples of two. This piece has 'sections', but they flow more smoothly from one to the next. And the time signature is 7/4. Various devices are employed to play with rhythm throughout the piece.
It uses simple but not unfamiliar melodic phrases to let the resonant beauty of the cello shine through.
Quotes from my professors“... a variety of new ideas ... keep this interesting for the listener (and performer) while including enough motivic ideas and rhythm patterns to make sure everything in the piece worked well together”
“I think musically, there are many moments that are very emotionally resonant and will be stunning when performed by a professional cellist...”