Rotation Study

for string quartet, 2020

program note:

As we embrace new ways of working following the COVID-19 pandemic, we can take this moment to adjust our artistic practice and understanding of how music can relate with time. With my Rotation Study I create a proportional notation system where each system lasts 15 seconds – the four quartet members form a kind of kaleidoscopic pattern each system, slowing shifting their notes in each line.

performance notes:

A stop watch or the provided click track can be used to keep your timing through the piece. The click track marks each second with three possible sounds: 1. for the start of each system, 2. for each tick mark representing seconds, and 3. for the two dashed lines in the middle of each system. The click track uses the pitches A and G, depending on the corresponding material in an effort to aid with intonation.

Because of its indeterminate nature, this piece can be performed through video conferencing software with each player performing in different locations, live in a traditional concert setting, or outdoors with each player distanced spatially, following our social distancing guidelines (or even further spaced apart).

c. 5’