Five is written for a five–string Baroque cello referred to as a "violoncello piccolo" which has an extra high E–string in addition to the usual C–G–D&38211;A strings. I therefore set out to compose a work that highlights the unique capabilities and qualities of this period instrument. Five is formally cast in a five–movement suite–like structure in reference to the Bach cellos suites, the Sixth of which was also written for the violoncello piccolo. The opening movement serves as a kind of pattern prelude featuring five–note arpeggios that evolve as the movement’s midpoint is approached, after which the sequence of arpeggios reverses itself. In movement 2, ethereal passages marked by high harmonics (some of which are only achievable on the extra E–string) alternate and contrast with extroverted low–register gestures. The brisk third movement is marked by the combination of oscillating patterns and left-hand pizzicato passages, as well as a slower inner passage. Movement 4 features a lyrical melody which requires the cellist to play almost exclusively on the high E–string, though a brief low register passage recalls the second movement as a distant memory. Five ends with an energetic final movement in which various elements collide: open strings are held as drones against chromatic scale passages, a lilting melody emerges in the inner portion, and ideas from previous movements are recalled.
