Ritual

Ritual (2000–2003) is a substantial work in three movements for string quartet. The first movement was originally composed in 2000 and underwent significant revision in 2003, when the second and third movements were also written.

The work opens with a seven-note cello ostinato, over which the other instruments gradually build a theme that emerges from a texture of apparent chaos, eventually leading to a climactic peak. A brief cadenza for the first violin introduces a more melodic central section, in which contrasting episodes unfold in succession, before returning to the opening material in a varied form.

The second movement is built on two intertwined melodic themes, developed through various contrapuntal techniques (including canon and invertible counterpoint) above a pedal-group. Much of the interest lies in the colour changes brought about by abrupt modulations. A fast central passage in 7/8 time, rhythmically relentless, eventually gives way to the return of earlier material, now progressively thinned out. The main rhythmic motif of the central section reappears in the background, like a watermark, in the first violin.

The third movement, marked very fast, is based on four motifs conceived in reverse counterpoint. These may also be presented melodically in varying sequences, allowing the creation of themes of differing lengths according to the demands of the musical discourse. This movement exemplifies the composer’s flexible and organic approach to form, balancing rigorous technique with expressive freedom.

Ritual was recorded by the Bruxellensis Quartet and released in 2006 on the Kalidisc label.