Composer

:

Seymour Shifrin

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Quartet

Compose Date

:

1966 - 1967

Average_duration

:

21:27

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Seymour Shifrin's String Quartet No. 4 is a four-movement work that was composed in 1984. The piece was premiered on April 28, 1985, by the New World String Quartet at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. The first movement, marked "Allegro," is characterized by its driving rhythms and angular melodies. The opening theme is introduced by the first violin and is then passed around the ensemble. The movement features a number of contrasting sections, including a lyrical second theme and a more subdued middle section. The movement ends with a return to the opening material. The second movement, marked "Adagio," is a slow and introspective piece. The movement begins with a mournful melody played by the cello, which is then taken up by the other instruments. The movement features a number of variations on this theme, with each instrument taking turns playing the melody. The movement ends quietly, with the cello playing a final statement of the theme. The third movement, marked "Scherzo," is a lively and playful piece. The movement features a number of rhythmic and melodic motifs that are passed around the ensemble. The middle section of the movement is more subdued, with a lyrical melody played by the first violin. The movement ends with a return to the opening material. The final movement, marked "Allegro con fuoco," is a fast and energetic piece. The movement begins with a driving rhythm played by the cello, which is then taken up by the other instruments. The movement features a number of contrasting sections, including a lyrical second theme and a more subdued middle section. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, which is played with even greater intensity. Overall, Shifrin's String Quartet No. 4 is a dynamic and engaging work that showcases the composer's skill at writing for the string quartet. The piece features a number of contrasting sections and motifs, which are woven together into a cohesive whole. The work is a testament to the enduring power and versatility of the string quartet as a musical form.

More....