There is a sense of suspense and uncertainty in taking steps in the night. It brings to mind the evocative aural qualities of someone moving through the dark – at times boldly, other times more carefully measured. – RW
“Steps in the Night” was the winning suggestion entry by J. Shea in a “title contest” sponsored by the Cello Museum.
Video features bassist Joel Braun’s beautifully sensitive performance of the version for unaccompanied double bass at the Butler School of Music, University of Texas/Austin.
Afternoon Reflections – solo low string
This is the version for solo Double Bass (in C Tuning).
BaDaBaDaDa – for solo string
Originally scored for low wind, I reworked the piece into this version for double bass.
The video features a wonderful home recording by bassist Joel Braun, who included it in his presentations at the Texas Music Educators Association 2021 Convention and the 2022 ASTA National Conference. I love the sense of lyricism and sensitivity of dynamics he brought to the work. Plus, I’m very grateful that he shared his thoughts on the technical aspects of the work.
In my presentation I’m giving it as an example of an intermediate level piece… so maybe a 4 or 5 out of 10 on a scale? Note-wise it’s not terribly difficult. The end of the first page and second page offer some challenges because it requires covering a little more space with the intervals in the longer lyrical lines. There are also intonation challenges since it leaves the bass so naked and there’s enough repetition that if it’s not the same for each time it’s very noticeable. Otherwise, most of the challenges are musical like you mentioned – dynamic contrasts, timing/tempo, etc. So I think an intermediate player could handle it but also be challenged and pushed musically.
(Score shown here is transposed for Solo tuning.)
Configurations
Both versions of the work as a duet for two cellists and a duet for cello & double bass are available through the score purchase link.
Score for cello & double bass
Score for two cellists
