String Quartet
vln I, vln, II, vla, vc
Date of Composition: 2000
PROGRAM NOTES:
The String Quartet is cast in the conventional four movement sequence – fast, moderate, slow, fast – yet the formal aspect of each movement is somewhat unconventional, in what I call “excursion form.” Excursion form incorporates a degree of randomness; imagine a butterfly in a garden landing on various flowers, occasionally returning to the same one.
The first movement consists of two main themes, beginning with a propulsive, frequently syncopated 16th-note figure, which gives way to a lyrical theme. Often the two are laced together.
Scherzo-like, the second movement features a texture of pizzicato against an intricate bowed part. A brief “trio” follows before the scherzo proper returns.
The third movement is a slow, expressive instrumental song. Excursion form is easily heard in this movement in that the primary and supportive motives are repeated in several guises. Nothing repeats: there is only a lonely discontinuity.
The finale, in contrast to the contemplative previous movement, brings the quartet to an exuberant close.
The Quartet was written during the summer of 2000, and is dedicated to my long-time friend, William S. Giorda.
-James Sellars