Ian Deterling

Witch of November - Cello

Witch of November, Op. 16 (2021)

  • for cello and vibraphone

    • Or for cello with either piano or audio accompaniment

      • Piano accompaniment is included

      • MP3 Backing Tracks are available for solo cello with audio accompaniment performances

  • ca. 5:00

Score/Parts Preview

Score Videos

Program Notes

Conjure the destructive power of the Great Lakes with the Witch of November. This impressionistic duet is full of bewitched wind chimes and turbulent waters illuminated by shimmers of distant lighthouses.

  • The “witch” in Witch of November is a personification of the prevailing winds that blow across the Great Lakes region in late autumn. Beginning with impressionistic wind chimes, the vibraphone evokes the approaching tempest. The ‘Witch’ appears as descending tritones (cello, measure 21) and begins to conjure the destructive power of Lake Superior with its churning melody. After a harrowing storm, the winds drift away, leaving behind a calm lake under a clear, frosty night. 

    • Commissioned by Dr. Derek Bromme, tuba

    • Premiered on January 25, 2022 at the University of Wisconsin-Superior.

      • Dr. Derek Bromme, tuba

      • Dr. Brett Jones, vibraphone

  • Score and set of parts; 29 pages.