Cascade
string
quartet (2009)
GENERAL
INFORMATION
The composition is based upon the sequence of pitches
C-A-F-C-A-D-E. The selection of “F” as a substitute for “S”
was inspired by sound holes (a.k.a. “F-holes”) on string
instruments appearing as an “S” because of differences
between lettering practices between earlier eras and today.
The opening phrases of each instrument present the pitch
sequence C-A-F-C-A-D-E, and the motive recurs throughout
the composition as a unifying device.
Conceptually, the composition is inspired by the definition
of “cascade” (from merriam-webster.com):
cas·cade
Function: noun
Etymology: French, from Italian cascata, from cascare, to
fall, from Vulgar Latin casicare, from Latin casus, fall
Date: 1641
1: a steep usually small fall of water; especially : one of
a series
2 a: something arranged or occurring in a series or in a
succession of stages so that each stage derives from or
acts upon the product of the preceding b: a fall of
material (as lace) that hangs in a zigzag line
3: something falling or rushing forth in quantity
The definition of “cascade” is manifest in a variety of
ways:
• In a general sense, the work is inspired by the shape and
sound of waterfalls: peaceful river, rushing river,
precipice, crashing water, mist, return to calm.
• The descending presentation of the C-A-F-C-A-D-E pitch
series is a cascade.
• The initial entrance order of the instruments from high
to low is a cascade.
• Series, repetition, succession, acceleration and
accumulation… all derived from the definition of “cascade”…
are integral to the composition.