orchestra

from WTC Book I

Composed in 2009 at the request of duo parnas, sisters Madalyn (violin) and Cicely (cello). It consists of a series of contiguous elaborated variations on a theme stated at the beginning, which is material also used in several works by the composer, including his Sigol Musings for solo violin, String Quartet No. 3, and 'Sigol' for Two, a fantasy written for duo parnas in 2008 and recorded on their CD Gare du Nord.  The theme starts rhapsodically  and ends with a little dance. The sequence of seven parts is identical in form to 'Sigol' for Two, and consists of the theme, a scherzando, a nervous fantasy, an aria which paraphrases the theme, a quixotic drama, a lullaby, and a varied reprise of the scherzando.  The relationship of the solo duo to the orchestra is more in the nature of collaboration than confrontation; the orchestra provides congenial settings for the solo parts while maintaining its own character. Fantasia concertante was awarded First Prize in the 2009 Fauxharmonic competition in Boston and was premiered at Indiana University in February 2011 by duo parnas with the Indiana New Musuic Ensemble conducted by David Dzubay.

A retrospective look at 75 years (1936 to 2011), in celebration of the composer's birthday. For large orchestra, cell phones, and optional slides (DVD powerpoint) of historical event images.

Excerpt - Diamond Jubilee - Elliott Schwartz (begins with quiet part)