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Rolf Wallin : Ground for Cello and 15 solo strings


Commissioned by the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra
Publisher Chester Music Ltd
Category
Soloist(s) and Orchestra
Sub-Category String Orchestra
Year Composed
1996
Duration 20 Minutes
Solo Instrument(s)
cello
Orchestration str(9.0.3.2.1) (NB parts may be doubled or tripled in performance)
Availability
Both  Explain this...
Discography Here...

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Solo Part(s) CH81422 Solo Part(s) Not available

Programme Note

Divisions on a Ground was a favoured cyclic form in the Baroque era. A short bassline with appropriate chords is obstinately repeated as a basis for constant melodic development. The form can be perceived as a picture of the never-ending cycle of life, whether it be the unpretentious 'La folia' or the deeply tragic 'When I Am Laid in Earth'. In 'Ground', a sequence of seven chords creates such a basis, although this is not as clearly perceptible as in the baroque examples of the form.

The role of the baroque division was often to highlight the astounding virtuosity of the soloist. This piece contains indeed a high grade of virtuosity, but it is hardly the central issue. 'Ground' is about finding rest.

Reviews

  • The ferocious cadenza for solo cello that kick-starts Ground for cello and strings (1997) is a gestrure of unmistakable confidence – here is a composer who knows exactly what he wants.
    Martin Anderson, International Record Review, 07/01/2002

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