SKU: A0.588503

Joropo de Justina is an exciting original composition by David McKeown, arranged as a duet for two Cellos.

This duet is based on the traditional Latin style of Joropo which is the national and traditional music of Venezuela. The music and its accompanying dance comes from the central plains area and is also found over the border in parts of Colombia. The basic pulse of the Joropo is 3, but this is overlaid with complex cross-rhythms. The main instrument is the harp, along with cuatro and maracas as the only percussion instrument. In the modern era other instruments may join the ensemble, especially bass. This arrangement represents the song style of Joropo, with the vocal alternating with instrumental breaks.

If you play to an advanced intermediate standard and upwards, then you and your audience will enjoy this piece. The many cross rhythms will provide a rhythmic challenge and there is little time to catch breath; following the articulation in the score will help convey the style. Joropo de Justina has a performance time of around two minutes at full tempo. You can listen to a full performance the Clarinet version of this duet by following the YouTube link above.