Cassandra Sings
Tina Davidson
About this work:
CASSANDRA SINGS , commissioned by the Kronos Quartet and recorded by the Cassatt String Quartet, “builds to a climax of tremendous richness, throwing out a soundscape that would seem to be much greater than merely four instruments can produce. An extended coda achieves a resolution of sublime dimensions" (Fanfare).
CASSANDRA SINGS uses harmonies in a dissonant but richly suggestive of their tonal centers in passing. The title refers both to the solitary prophetess of ancient Greece whose predictions were never believed, and the composer's daughter. The work opens with an arresting, long-limbed melody on the cello, prologue to a propulsive syncopated section which is tense and resonant. A fantastical stretch of ghostly effects ends in a chaotic, upward-scuttling motion. After a sudden calm, the rapidly-figured motions slowly return, but now are more clear and affirmative; the work becomes joyous, open and peaceful.
Version: String Quartet
Year composed: 2000
Duration: 00:15:20
Ensemble type: Chamber or Jazz Ensemble, Without Voice:Unknown
Instrumentation: