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Earth (1998) |
For string quartet - 18'
Earth is one of
a current series of chamber works whose title suggests a substance or material
from which forms develop or are made. The preceding work (for large mixed ensemble)
is Bronze - a metal which is beaten or moulded to fashion artifacts of one kind
or another, everything from huge abstract sculpture to ordinary, everyday objects.
Similarly, earth is purely substance, matter which gives rise to fantastical
geological shapes and varied life forms.
The architecture of the string quartet, Earth, grows purely from the
notes and rhythms displayed in its first few pages. Cast in a single movement,
it sets out purposefully on its musical journey in a warm and intense vein,
and then travels through a variety of different string colours, taking in the
glacial sounds of extreme high ponticello notes, the roughness of deep cello
chords, and the earthy flutterings of fast trills. Various contemporary string
techniques are used, from playing with the bow up against the scroll, to the
cellist's use of both hands on the bow to produce a fierce, grating effect.
Two passages highlight first the viola, then the cello in virtuosic moments
of concerto-like difficulty before all four instruments join together once more.
The work draws to a close with a series of rich, warm chords.
First performance: 31 October 1998, New Zealand String Quartet Hamilton, New Zealand