String Quartet #2 (20:50)
My second journey into the world of string quartet is once again inspired by Beethoven, the greatest quartet composer of all time. It was written in response to a call for scores from Delgani Quartet titled “Beethoven Reimagined.”
Five movements have themes based on the rhythmic structure and melodic profile of themes from Beethoven’s Quartet #13 in B flat, Opus 130. Some of them even use the exact pitches of the first portion of the original melody. Each of these adopted themes has been extended to form a 12-tone row. While the piece does not use the triadic tonal structure of its inspiration, the pitch B flat retains a prominent role in anchoring the form. The work also has six movements, like Opus 130.
While the themes have recognizable similarities to Beethoven’s, most convey a different feeling. The overall mood is of joyful and energetic play, with touches of reflection and deeper emotional expression in the first and third movements. It is a simple work, with no pretensions to compete with the great master. There are no extended techniques, lengthy development sections or virtuosic flourishes, just clear, concise expression that I hope is touching and fun for player and listener alike.
Feel free to download a PDF of the score (currently no charge). To purchase a printed and bound score, with or without parts, or obtain PDF parts, please contact me.
