Quartet no. 2 [abstract]

Abstract

Quartet no. 2 is the second string quartet that I have written, and will be performed Friday, April 8th as part of my Senior Composition Recital. The overall mood of the work is set by high levels of rhythmic activity. This rhythmic activity appears as an element of the hypometric structure within individual measures as fast scalar lines and rapidly traded note clusters. On the hypermetric level of structure, rhythmic complexity is achieved through the metric shifting of phrases and various forms of hemiola. I also attempted to capitalize on the wide range of timbres that string instruments can produce. There are two main themes which reappear in various guises throughout the movement. The first theme is characterized by its intertwining, motivically driven sixteenth note runs, and a metric emphasis that oscillates between three-four and six-eight patterns. The second theme is more heroic and lyrical, and serves as the primary source of material in the development section. These two themes are recapitulated in the reverse order of their presentation, and the piece ends the same sparse, pointillistic texture with which it begins. This makes the structure of the piece somewhat symmetrical overall, and creates a sense of balance between the ideas which I find pleasing.