Violin and guitar, 1999
Duration: 4 minutes
Program note:
Asphalt Gypsy was composed in December 1999, inspired by a variety of
flamboyant string instrument styles, and the virtuosity of the members
of Duo46 for whom the piece was written. Two basic ideas alternate
throughout the work: a chordal texture which opens the piece using
strict contrary motion in the outer voices, and a dancing melody drawn
from the octatonic scale. Hints of Eastern European and American folk
styles find their way into the piece - not as direct quotes, but as
influences just below the surface of the music. The title is meant to
suggest something of the traveling musician, in the tradition of
ancient wandering minstrels and in the modern incarnation of street
fair, subway, or concert hall performers.
Commissioned by Duo46
Recorded by Duo46 on “Fables, Forms, and Fears”, Meyer Media, MM07008 (2007) and on “Untaming the Fury”, Summit Records, DCD-346 (2003)