Colors, Mostly Lush

Considering a long history of landmark string quartets by the best composers that fine art music has to offer, I decided to take a lighter approach to the genre.  I wanted to create a piece that encapsulates the natural richness and vibrancy of the string quartet and explores the many coloristic opportunities of the ensemble.  It opens with thick unisons and meaty low-ranges, and slowly blossoms with grace and power.  A heavy reliance on jazz harmonies and syncopation gives the piece drive, yet I was careful to retain a certain elegance throughout.  The result is multiple sections that vary from playful and dance-like to rich and determined.

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Duration: 8 min.