Walentynowicz, Władysław (1902-1999)
Quartet (12:00) 1952 Publisher: PWM (c1981)
Allegro moderato
Allegro scherzando
Andante sostenuto
Allegretto
Instrumentation: flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon
Written in the same year as the Reed Trio, this work presents the same quality of writing and musical material. It is also written in classical forms with traditional major-minor tonal approach. It is characterized by clear texture, and balance between the voices. From the beginning to the end, the voices are employed evenly in a very charming manner. The slow movement is built in the same way as the slow movement of the trio. Both are constructed from four measure melodic building blocks. Because the composer is very interested in equal instrumental voicing, the four-measure building blocks transform the material into polyphony with imitation.
There is a balance of instrumental interest. Difficulty is moderate. This composition offers an opportunity to less experienced players to develop ensemble playing.
Grade: III-IV
Recordings: none
Sheet music source: out of print