Work
String Quartet No. 2
for string quartet
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About
Melodic ideas and motifs are derived from a magic square by Renaissance artists Albrecht Durer, which appears on the woodcut called 'Melancholia'. The first movement is energetic in character, while the second is sad and melancholic, with a slowly rocking idea being suggestive of a lullaby. The third movement is obsessive in rhythm, with a gentler contrasting middle section. After a reflective opening, the finale bursts into a rustic, dance-like mood. Towards the end, various motifs from earlier movements are integrated into the texture and the work ends with a flourish. This is a substantial, yet approachable work for professional musicians.
Commissioned note
By the Nevine Quartet of Wellington, with funding from Creative New Zealand.
Dedication note
To the Nevine Quartet
Contents note
In four movements:
1. Allegro
2. Like a lullaby
3. Allegro pesante
4. Misterioso - allegro molto
Performance history
06 Oct 2003: Premiered by the Nevine String Quartet: Liz Patchett and Janet Armstrong (violins), Peter Barber (viola) and Robert Ibell (cello) in Osaka, Japan
22 Sep 2008: Performed by the Nevine String Quartet - Lyndon Taylor and Janet Armstrong (violins), Peter Barber (viola) and Robert Ibell (cell) at the Ilot Theatre, in Wellington