THE CELLINOVA RAG , THE CELLINOVA BIG BLUES

The TWO JAZZ PIECES for Cello Ensembles are popular pieces, easy-sounding in concept, a real joy to play, and endearing to the general concert going public of all ages. Here the emphasis should be largely on 'having fun', and not merely about 'getting it right'! The first piece, 'Cellinova Rag', is in the tradition of Scott Joplin and in an A-B-A ternary form. Although the first cello has the major melodic part (although almost always well-supported harmonically and melodically by the second cellist) in the central 'B' section the third and fourth cellos come to the fore and can enjoy a brief moment to shine! A similar thing could be said of 'The Cellinova Big Blues', which is constructed in a number of traditional 12-bar Blues 'verses'. Again the second Cello closely supports the higher lines of the first cello; however in this piece the third and fourth cello become increasingly free from their initial rhythmical bass lines to become almost equals in the distribution of the material. In this way it makes sense to perform both together as a set.It is interesting to note that both pieces were originally conceived as Cello Quartets with four 'soloists' but can equally well work as being programmed for an orchestra of Cellos – one should solely note that in the Cellinova Big Blues the free Introduction on cello part No.1 should presented by only one solo cellist (not Tutti) until the main Blues is reached. Indeed the mass orchestral sound could be very 'grandiose' and inspiring in these flexible 'creations'. In whichever formation one wishes to present them, they can be programmed as a refreshing moment in a rather more serious chamber music recital, a highly accessible piece for orchestral cello sections (both professional and amateur, not to mention Youth orchestras…), as a pleasurable relaxing moment in music courses and workshops, and of course suitable as a piece in the collective class for all Intermediate-Advanced students.

The inspiration to write this music came from the Spanish-Basque professional cellist Aritz Gómez Uranga and the virtuoso Spanish group 'CELLINOVA' Cello Ensemble, whom the composer has high regard (and was delighted to have participated with them on one occasion!). Having once played regularly in a Cello Quartet in London himself many years previously, this writing was a promise he made to the present group after having shared pleasurable musical experiences with them – they are well worthy of the official dedication!