2 mins
Making a difference
A new viola-focused quintet based on musical contrasts
INSIDE INFORMATION: Illuminated solely by light from the f-holes, the interior of a 1705 Francesco Gofriller cello takes on the appearance of a vast, resonant concert hall. Currently played by Rolf Gjelsten of the New Zealand String Quartet (NZSQ), the instrument was once owned by Alexandre Barjansky, whose playing on this cello inspired Ernest Bloch to compose his Schelomo. All four of the NZSQ’s instruments – including violins by Pietro Guarneri of Venice and Lorenzo Storioni, and a Nicolò Amati viola – have been transformed by photographer Charles Brooks, who says: ‘The cello stands out for its unique poplar back, a deviation from the typical spruce.’ Photo: Charles Brooks/www.architectureinmusic.com
COMPOSER Errollyn Wallen
WORK String Quintet
ARTISTS Shiry Rashkovsky (viola) Solem Quartet
DATE 17 March 2024
PLACE Stratford St Mary Parish Church, Suffolk, UK bitly.ws/39eP7
Errollyn Wallen
Solem Quartet
WALLEN PHOTO GRANT SMITH. QUARTET PHOTO BERTIE WATSON
The string quintet with two violas has famous precedents, but I’d like to bring something fresh to it,’ says British composer Errollyn Wallen about her new string quintet, commissioned by violist Shiry Rashkovsky. The Solem Quartet will complete the ensemble. ‘Shiry implied that she wanted solo elements to her part, so there are times where the viola steps out and other players weave around her. I also love to play with different groupings, so there will also be duets and so on,’ she says.
The idea of contrasts is central to the 20-minute piece, which is conceived as one movement divided into sections. ‘Some of this music is very vigorous and virtuosic, and then there are parts that are simpler and song-like,’ she says. ‘Contrast is something of a hallmark of my music – it can be very lyrical but also biting.’ And, she explains, it is ultimately a feeling of ‘fluidity’ that brings the contrasting sections together.
About the composition process, she says: ‘Even though my music might inspire images, it’s always the notes themselves that I work with in almost an abstract way. It’s about exploring the potential of the initial ideas.’ Solem Quartet violist Stephen Upshaw, who has previously collaborated with Wallen, says, ‘Errollyn’s music is filled with enthusiasm, beauty and excitement, and she expertly blends musical styles in a way that is always fresh and engaging.’
‘I really admire how each stringed instrument sounds individual in every player’s hands,’ says Wallen about writing for strings. ‘You have to compose for the people playing, and that matters a lot to me. I hope that with this piece, Shiry Rashkovsky and the Solem Quartet have something they can really make their own. The challenge has been trying to create the utmost drama for these five players.’