Elegy for Violoncello and Piano - (2002)     

for violoncello and piano (also available for violin and piano)

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Anton Guadagno, in memoriam

 

This was written on the occasion of the death of maestro Anton Guadagno, a well respected opera conductor with whom I had just completed performances of Wagner's Tannhäuser. The maestro was a pleasant and quixotic true character of a man, both a gentleman and fine musician. This theme suggested itself to me upon learning of his passing, and the work was written in a day's time.

 

Anton Guadagno

 

After a short introduction with three ascending gestures for the violoncello, a florid "quasi improviso" is sung out in the solo voice, descending melodically as the fioratura rises in intensity and ultimately in tessitura as well.

 

 

 

After the first extended statement by the solo violoncello, the piano takes over the same theme and florid intricacies, as the cello then decorates with an echoing counterpoint.

 

 

The score is available as a free PDF download, though any major commercial performance or recording of the work is prohibited without prior arrangement with the composer. Click on the graphic below for this chamber music score.

 

Elegy for Violoncello and Piano - Piano score

 

Violoncello part