Creative exploration of eclecticism applied to bowed string instruments with special emphasis on cellos: portfolio of original compositions and exegesis

Abstract

This submission for the degree of Master of Philosophy in musical composition at the Elder Conservatorium of Music, University of Adelaide, consists of a portfolio of original compositions supported by an explanatory exegesis. The central concept for the creative exploration represented by these works is the idea of composing for bowed string instruments, cellos in particular, in a stylistically eclectic manner that will confront classically trained performers with rhythms drawn from a wide range of non-classical and non-European musical traditions. In this sense the project may be regarded as related to a contemporary ‘crossover’ approach, but hopefully without some of the more negative connotations of that problematic marketing term. The five pieces in the portfolio are: Marimbello, for marimba and violoncello; Camino Trio, for piano, violin and violoncello; Trilogy, for an ensemble of 8 to 12 cellos and percussion; Son Montucello, for two cellos; and Kaleidoscope, concerto for two cellos, string orchestra and piano. In addition to the scores presented in Part A, and the exegesis in Part B, there is a DVD containing live recordings of all the pieces. These recordings are integral to the submission, because they embody the performance practice of interpreting the notated rhythms in the appropriate styles.