Composer

:

Ian Krouse

Genre

:

Chamber

Average_duration

:

14:01

'Music in Four Sharps (on Dowland's Frog Galliard)' is a contemporary classical composition by Ian Krouse. It was composed in 1992 and premiered on March 7, 1993, by the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet at the University of California, Los Angeles. The piece is divided into four movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively and energetic piece that showcases the technical abilities of the performers. The music is characterized by fast, intricate fingerwork and complex rhythms. The second movement, marked "Lento," is a slower, more contemplative piece that features a haunting melody played over a simple, repetitive accompaniment. The third movement, marked "Allegro con brio," is a return to the fast-paced energy of the first movement, with a driving rhythm and intricate counterpoint between the four guitars. The final movement, marked "Adagio," is a slow and mournful piece that brings the composition to a somber and reflective close. One of the unique characteristics of 'Music in Four Sharps' is its use of Dowland's Frog Galliard as a source material. Dowland's original composition is a Renaissance-era lute piece, and Krouse's adaptation for four guitars brings a contemporary sensibility to the music while still honoring its historical roots. The use of four guitars also allows for a rich and complex sound, with each instrument contributing to the overall texture of the piece. Overall, 'Music in Four Sharps (on Dowland's Frog Galliard)' is a challenging and rewarding composition that showcases the technical abilities of the performers while also exploring the emotional depth and complexity of the music. Its use of historical source material and contemporary sensibility make it a unique and compelling addition to the classical guitar repertoire.

More....