CPMusicLibrary's video: Rhapsody 14sts Forsyth

Rhapsody for 14 Strings - by Malcolm Forsyth Program notes by the composer Composed in 1982, this work was commissioned by Stephen and Sue Jane Bryant for premiere on their MCMAS chamber music series in Edmonton, which the composer conducted. Its scoring is basically for 14 solo parts (8 violins, 3 violas, 2 cellos and 1 bass), although there is frequent doubling in the manner of a normal string chamber orchestra. Its four distinct sections are played as one continuous movement. They are: 1. Lento, pensato 4/4, in which the material of the entire work is presented, viz a descending pattern of whole- and half-steps, repeated minor chord, and a motive in the violas based on so-called horn-fifths. 2. Allegretto giusto 6/4, wherein various ostinati present themselves, and jazz-like figures cascade in violins and cellos. 3. Lento, come prima 4/4. An elaboration of the first section, incorporating an extended interlude for solo violin. 4. Allegretto, leggero 6/8. Further variation and development in a fairly complex chain of events. Rhythmic ostinati are again much to the fore; there is a new theme in the violins and cross-rhythms abound. The piece ends by simply and restfully fading into silence. The performance materials are on rental. A conductor's score may be purchased through our online store at https://cpmusiclibrary.ca/store/ Visit our website www.cpmusiclibrary.ca