Abstract
The successful performance practice of new music is the result of an understanding of, dedication to, and thorough preparation of the music of today’s composers. The purpose of this study is to explore the selection process, commissioning process, preparation process, and performance of a Twenty-First Century cello concerto with wind ensemble by notable composer Aaron Travers. This essay features my perspective as the cellist, directly involved in premiering Deep heaves the Ocean black…, a concerto written for me and the University of Miami Frost Wind Ensemble, commissioned by Gary D. Green and the University of Miami Frost School of Music. Included in this essay are transcripts of conversations between the composer and myself that took place during the preparation process of the concerto. In addition, I include a detailed discussion of performance decisions as well as a complete performance edition of the solo cello part.