David Kulma

My String Quartet was begun in the fall of 2008 and was finished in the spring of 2009. Although begun during the composition of Impulses, it occupies a different sound world. My attempt at a string quartet brought out some of the most rhythmic, forceful, and dissonant music I have ever written. The first movement juxtaposes eerie quiet with explosive gestures. The second movement begins with shimmering chords, progresses to a large angry climax, and returns to a remembrance of the opening. The final movement explores powerful antagonism and dense chromatic stretto. It is dedicated to Nicole Benton, who asked me to finish my set-aside work.