Celia Sieckert

Set List

Here's a sample setlist for 60-75 minutes of playing:

J. S. Bach
Solo Cello Suite No. 1
Prelude
Allemande
Sarabande
Menuets I-II
Gigue
Solo Cello Suite No. 3
Prelude
Allemande
Courante
Sarabande
Bourrées I-II
Gigue
Minuet No. 2
Minuet No. 3

Maria Theresa von Paradis, "Sicilliene"
W. A. Mozart, "May Time"
G. F. Handel, Bourrée
F. J. Gossec, Gavotte
C. M. von Weber, "Hunters’ Chorus"

*NOTE: I usually play a classical program like this one with a smattering of self-arranged folk, Celtic, jazz, and pop songs for solo cello. How many of these other genres I insert depends on the event itself (weddings having more romantic or cheerful pieces, funerals having more somber ones, etc.).

Influences & Inspiration

My playing is heavily influenced by these cellists:
1. Jacqueline du Pré
2. Yo-Yo Ma
3. Sheku Kanneh-Mason
4. Natalie Haas
5. Alisa Weilerstein
Some of these cellists -- notably Jacqueline du Pré and Alisa Weilerstein -- are more classically focused and were fundamental to my growth as a young musician. Others -- notably Yo-Yo Ma, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, and Natalie Haas -- inspire me to play outside of the box and explore everything the cello is capable of.

I am also incredibly motivated by these potentially more mainstream artists:
1. Joni Mitchell
2. Alanis Morissette
3. Brandi Carlile
4. Billy Joel
5. Van Morrison
I grew up listening to a lot of older artists like Billy Joel and Van Morrison. Their ability to tell a story is unparalleled, and being exposed to them at such a young age set my standards as a collaborator like nothing else. Similarly, the music of Joni Mitchell, Brandi Carlile, and Alanis Morissette has always inspired me to play anything like they sing their songs: passionately and sincerely.

Setup Requirements

armless chair