for string quartet
Program Note:
“String Quartet No. 1” begins with an introductory movement titled I. Explosion. This movement functions much like an Overture. Within these opening minutes, a melodic assortment unfolds, showcasing a span of themes and moods that are later developed throughout subsequent movements. However, composing this quartet felt a little unusual because the introduction was the first part of the piece I composed. I found myself with approximately three minutes of material that was saturated with feelings of brightness, darkness, longing, stabbing, and moments of ambiguity. It became clear that my task was to give life into these initial fragments, and allow them to evolve organically throughout the quartet’s subsequent movements and interludes. Ultimately, this piece represents my own exploration in form, resulting in both a creative challenge and an ode to my love of colorful expression and the connection of varied narratives in music.
Audio Excerpt (Mov. II “Lament”):
performed by the JACK Quartet
Perusal Score:
Charlie Kreidler 