A Hudson Diptych (2024)
For advanced String Ensemble
6 minutes
On (South) Broadway
Night, by the river
Program Notes
Composed for the adventurous young students of the Hudson River School of Music, A Hudson Diptych consists of two brief vignettes inspired by life in the so-called “River Towns,” a cluster of small towns on the Hudson river, just north of New York City. The first movement— “On (South) Broadway”—is a joyful romp with a folksy tinge. Jaunty tunes echo the rush of a typical day, while unusual percussive sounds accompany the music on its way to a rousing conclusion. The second movement—Night, by the river—is a nocturnal ramble in which slowly pulsing strings evoke lapping waves as a distant melody floats above like traces of moonlight peaking through shifting clouds.
“A Hudson Diptych” was commissioned by the Hudson River School of Music. It premiered May 11, 2024.
Performance Notes
A Hudson Diptych introduces some more contemporary techniques, including sul tasto, sul ponticello, and percussive techniques to younger players in the form of two contrasting movements, from playful to atmospheric.
The piece can be performed by a mixed size string ensemble with a minimum of 4 Violins, 1 Viola, 2 Celli, and 1 Double Bass. If necessary, the double bass part, while certainly wonderful to have, could also be omitted. An alternate Violin III part is available for doubling the first movement Viola part and an alternate Cello III part is available for doubling the second movement viola part. The Double Bass part is optional and not required in the event that there is no bass player.
In the first movement, players play their instruments percussively, using their hands. An instructional video is available for demonstrating these techniques. Please contact the composer for a link to this video.
Perusal Score
Performances
July 17, 2024 | Summer Youth Music School, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH.
May 11, 2024 | Hudson River School of Music. Dobbs Ferry, NY.