Suite for String Quartet has been in a continuous state of “revision” since Christmas 2004. For this current version I have developed a new tuning for all 16 strings. Each string of the quartet is retuned to an odd number partial of 60Hz.
Suite For String Quartet is written specifically for resonant spaces, interactive electronics, audience participation and string quartet.
Please feel free to explore the space, move quickly, move slowly, make subtle movements, dance! Listen to the unique characteristics of the space and the sounds being performed by the loud speakers, strings players and each other!
credits
from Charles Johnson/Zachary Watkins,
track released July 1, 2009
Emily Packard - Violin I
Angela Hsu - Violin II
Liz Meredith - Viola
Theresa Wong - Cello
Zachary James Watkins - Electronics and Conducting
Recorded at the Mills College Concert Hall Foyer Foyer April 29th, 2006 by The Norman Conquest
supported by 4 fans who also own “Suite for String Quartet”
From the first notes I was spellbound. This austere and contemplative masterpiece ranks alongside the solo piano works of Satie, Young, Budd and Riley for its gravitas, mystery and poignant beauty. A landmark recording. Ferrara Brain Pan
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supported by 4 fans who also own “Suite for String Quartet”
Had the pleasure of attending Andy Lee's performance world premiere of "pianist, alone (2)" at CalArts in September 2013. Hearing it again now, it re-strikes me as uniquely, if quietly, stunning. Man music mechanism: all engaged in a pure probing of sonic possibility. Essential, restrained, ultimately rapturous. George Wallace