Prelude and Dance for String Quartet

The slow and passionate opening of the Prelude gives way to a more melancholic melody, passed around the quartet by the violins and cello. A new, more hopeful and animated melody is introduced by the violin and viola shortly after the first theme, but is cut short by the sudden introduction of a short and more subtle transition, led by the violin, viola, and cello, which then leads into a yearning melody. The melody is passed back and forth between the violin and viola in a call and response gesture, as if the viola and violin are having a romantic conversation with each other. The dreamy melody slowly fades into a peaceful moment of silence and a resolution between the violin and viola, signaling the end of the Prelude. Suddenly, a lighthearted and spirited violin melody is introduced, leading into the Dance. The melody by the violin is passed around the quartet by the violins and viola, eventually leading to the climax of the Dance. A determined and more driving melody is passed around through the quartet, led by the violins and cello, which then gives way to a shorter, but slower and more delicate theme, led by the cello. The theme quickly resolves into another peaceful and resolute moment of silence as the Dance comes to an end, signaling the end of the performance.

The recording is generated by Finale's electronic instruments.