697342A8-058E-4B6A-B832-857E17564E76

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ID697342A8-058E-4B6A-B832-857E17564E76
TitlecodeX504004
Title NameThree American Portraits
Marketing CopyRhythms and harmonies from the folk tradition. Movements: I. Greeting, II. As One, III. Rumble
InstrumentationString Quartet
Commission(not set)
Dedication(not set)
Program NotesThree American Portraits for String Quartet are inter-related movements each displaying uniquely American characteristics.

"Greeting" is a rough-hewn work with jagged contrasts between pizzicato and arco sections. The language is simple and diatonic, interspersed with vocal and tapping effects for color (and humor). Occasional references to popular idioms of jazz and rock can also be heard. The quiet beginning section is intended to draw in the audience, while the boisterous conclusion seeks to provide an awakening 'splash of cold water.'

"As One" is modal (natural minor) and folk-like in character, perhaps Celtic and/or Appalachian. The opening melody in the viola, derived from the ending of "Greeting" is echoed by the other strings. As the imitative entrances draw together more tightly, the intent is to create a tension that heightens the mournful quality of the melody.

"Rumble" is urban, often angry and violent, nocturnal and greasy. The opening section, again derived for the ending of "Greeting," is marked 'with energy and foreboding,' presented in a 7/8 meter for purposes of aggression. This movement may be interpreted as a street fight.

Gwyneth Walker
Title Brand2
Year Composed1988
Copyright Number(not set)
Copyright Year(not set)
Duration13
Ensemble Size4
Date Created2008-10-31 20:32:09.000000
Date Updated2025-09-30 20:32:09
Inhouse Note(not set)
Bsc Code(not set)
Text Author(not set)
Premier Performance Memo-Carnelian String Quartet. 04 Jun 95.
-Nicolo String Quartet. 20 May 94; 11 Dec 94.
-The Women's Philharmonic String Quartet. 08 May 94.
Recording Credits(not set)
Review(not set)
Awards(not set)
Title Category10
Title MovementsI. Greeting
II. As One
III. Rumble
Title Grade(not set)
Set Series ID(not set)
Title Instrument Category TextString Duo & Ensemble
Title Sub Category Text(not set)
Title Sub Category76
Title Instrument Header63
Title Grade Text(not set)
Clean Urlthree-american-portraits-x504004