I love the sound of string instruments performing together. A lovely quartet playing, especially something from the Baroque period (or reminiscent of), will typically get a listen from me. But if I was asked what would be my favorite of the stringed instruments, I find myself always thinking of the cello.
I think this is because when it comes to being played as a solo instrument, I find it more versitale melodically than a bass, but less strident and screechy in sound than the violin and sometimes the viola can get. It has a mellowness and moodiness to it's quality that alows it to be slow and somber when needed but also energetic and lively.
Also, on a minor point, I have found that there is something sensual about the instrument to me; a bit of eroticism to the way the instrument is held and placed when played. The only instrument, to me that seems to have this sort of connection.
Typically, since I was more aware of stinged instruments being used in orchestral compositions, I never really paid much attention to the artists themselves, moreso than the pieces that were performed. But lately I have been finding I am in the mood for more contemporary cello work. Modern pieces typically written by the cellist themselves, either as instrumental pieces or accompaniment to vocal work. At the moment the two that I can easily name off the top of my head are Zoe Keating and Unwoman. Currently I find myself listening to them almost daily. If you you visit their sites they do have some tracks available for free download. I was also wondering if there are any other cellists you would recommend.
I'm also glad to say that I can count Unwoman among those I would consider an aquantaince and friend. And if all falls into place, may be working with her in the future, possibly before the end of the year.
But if anyone local is interested in seeing Unwoman perform, she will be having a CD release party on Sept. 29th at the Uptown (link below). On the album, 'Uncovered: Volume 1', she will be doing a cover of a selection of songs from 1980-1995 that have been inspirational to her or had some personal meaning. I have had the opportunity to listen the album and it is a wonder to listen to.
I hope many of you will be able to make it out.
The link to info about the Unwoman CD release party is here: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=199941830067125
I think this is because when it comes to being played as a solo instrument, I find it more versitale melodically than a bass, but less strident and screechy in sound than the violin and sometimes the viola can get. It has a mellowness and moodiness to it's quality that alows it to be slow and somber when needed but also energetic and lively.
Also, on a minor point, I have found that there is something sensual about the instrument to me; a bit of eroticism to the way the instrument is held and placed when played. The only instrument, to me that seems to have this sort of connection.
Typically, since I was more aware of stinged instruments being used in orchestral compositions, I never really paid much attention to the artists themselves, moreso than the pieces that were performed. But lately I have been finding I am in the mood for more contemporary cello work. Modern pieces typically written by the cellist themselves, either as instrumental pieces or accompaniment to vocal work. At the moment the two that I can easily name off the top of my head are Zoe Keating and Unwoman. Currently I find myself listening to them almost daily. If you you visit their sites they do have some tracks available for free download. I was also wondering if there are any other cellists you would recommend.
I'm also glad to say that I can count Unwoman among those I would consider an aquantaince and friend. And if all falls into place, may be working with her in the future, possibly before the end of the year.
But if anyone local is interested in seeing Unwoman perform, she will be having a CD release party on Sept. 29th at the Uptown (link below). On the album, 'Uncovered: Volume 1', she will be doing a cover of a selection of songs from 1980-1995 that have been inspirational to her or had some personal meaning. I have had the opportunity to listen the album and it is a wonder to listen to.
I hope many of you will be able to make it out.
The link to info about the Unwoman CD release party is here: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=199941830067125