Rieding Cello Concerto in B Minor Op. 35 for Cello and String Orchestra

Looking for a proper first Romantic concerto that really stretches an advancing young cellist? This Rieding Cello Concerto in B minor, Op. 35 takes the much‑loved violin concerto and reimagines it for cello – keeping the drama and lyricism, but adding more demanding position work up the A string.

About the music

Originally written as a concerto for violin, this version is Rieding’s own arrangement for solo cello, remaining in the key of B minor. The melodic writing sings beautifully on the cello, while adapted passagework and octave‑displaced lines make full use of the instrument’s rich middle and upper register. Young players will meet extended shifts, cantabile playing in higher positions, and confident projection over the ensemble, making this an ideal stepping stone towards the mainstream Romantic concerto repertoire.

Why this arrangement?

Rather than a simple transcription, this edition follows Rieding’s own adaptation for cello, reshaping figurations and taking lines down the octave where needed so they sit naturally under the hand. It is noticeably more demanding than the better‑known violin version, giving ambitious learners and their teachers a concerto that really builds shifting security up the A string, left‑hand agility, and sustained singing tone. The orchestral parts provide a clear, supportive framework, allowing the soloist to lead with confidence in lessons, concerts, and exams.

Key features

• Instrumentation: Solo Cello with String Orchestra (Vln I, Vln II, Vla, Vc, Db)
• Difficulty: Intermediate–advanced cello (around ABRSM Grade 6) – more demanding than the violin version
• Technique focus: Frequent position changes up the A string, shifting security, expressive vibrato, and confident projection
• Format: Instant PDF download – full score and all string parts included
• Usage: No additional performance licence required for concerts, recordings, or streaming (please credit the arranger and publisher)

See & Hear the Difference

Have a look at the score and parts preview images above, then watch the complete score video below. Together, these let you look at the engraving quality and check that the overall standard of the arrangement is appropriate for your ensemble before you buy.

Perfect for

• Student recitals and exams: A substantial Romantic concerto movement to showcase musical maturity and secure shifting
• Youth and school orchestras: A rewarding concerto project for ensembles ready to support a confident young soloist
• Conservatoire prep & auditions: Ideal bridging repertoire between shorter concert pieces and the major concertos
• Teacher–student concerto projects: Focused work on intonation, position changes, and phrasing in B minor within a stylistically clear, audience‑friendly work