Harmony
Zhou Long
About this work:
Published by Oxford University Press. Contact: http://www.oup.co.uk/music/
Commissioned by the
West Cork Chamber Music Festival
with support from the Arts Council
Premiered by the RTÉ Vanbrugh Quartet on 6 July 2002
In Chinese characters, the word harmony is composed of two parts: the first comes
from the ancient symbol for grain or a grain-plant; the second comes from the symbol
for mouth. Together they conceptualize the idea that grain is pleasing to the mouth
and essential to the body, producing a natural harmony. The combination of these
characters also implies increased awareness on a physical, mental, and spiritual level. I
believe that when one’s personal awareness of these areas is cultivated first from within,
it then will reflect out in our relationships with all people, the planet, and the universe.
Ancient Chinese philosophy teaches that through proper behavior—exercise, diet,
breathing, meditation, and positive mental attitude—we can acquire physical, mental,
and spiritual well-being. This can be summarized in the three harmonic principals:
Peace, Light, Love.
Harmony for string quartet consists of three movements. The first movement starts with
a vigorous five-note chromatic motive, followed by a peaceful harmonic section that
gradually develops into a multi-layered chant-like theme. This theme becomes more
energetic and rhythmic, moving towards a climax that resolves peacefully. The second
movement is slow and meditative with inter-weaving tonal melodies. The third movement
returns to the opening chromatic motive, slightly altered and played prestissimo.
This motive is contrasted with a more peaceful melody based on the traditional Shanxi
folk song, “Leaving Home.” Gradually, the folk song melody merges with the rhythmic
energy of the chromatic motive bringing the quartet to a vibrant, prestissimo conclusion.
Year composed: 2002
Duration: 00:00:00
Ensemble type: Chamber or Jazz Ensemble, Without Voice:String Quartet
Instrumentation: 2 Violin, 1 Viola, 1 Cello
Instrumentation notes: Some quarter-tone playing.