Program Note

​​Symmetries examines existence through reciprocal relationships, reflective patterns, and intricate systems through the symmetrical manipulation of a variety of musical parameters, such as orchestration, timbre, texture, form, and pitch. 

The agitated first movement, "Dualism," simplifies existence into complementary relationships.  The movement exploits the symmetry of the ensemble itself in presenting reciprocal symmetries, juxtaposing left and right, high and low, long and short, and bright and dark.  However, such a simplification of existence neglects the complicated nature of reality.  After turbulent struggles between the opposing forces of the ensemble, the movement withers away.  The proceeding two movements progressively approach existence with regard to its intricacy. 

The meditative second movement, “Reflections,” examines more sophisticated musical symmetries, such as melodic and harmonic inversion, canonic treatment of melodic subjects, and palindromic form. Influenced by the mathematical concept of fractals (self-similar geometrical patterns that exist within fractional dimensions) the movement organizes these multiple levels of symmetry into a hierarchical layering of nested reflective patterns.  

Of the three movements, the elaborate third movement, “Intertwined,” embraces the complexity of life.  The movement reflects back on the preceding movements, reinterpreting their motives in the context of a truer representation of reality. The motives combine, and a derived twelve-tone row alluded to in the preceding movements emerges.  The members of both quartets state alternating and overlapping melodic manipulations of the symmetrical row.  The quartets rapidly become entangled with one another in an interwoven texture rich in both order and complexity.  The intersection of order and complexity serves as the most apt description of existence in the entire piece.  Ultimately, however, the human pursuit of complete illumination proves overzealous and futile.  Toward the end of the piece, the two quartets come together in unison in desperation.  Enlightenment gives way to desperation, and the beautiful logic amidst intricacy becomes lost.

A contorted version of the movement’s opening returns, and the piece closes with a devastating crash.

For rental, perusal, or other inquiries, please email clarosa16@gmail.com