Undercurrents

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano — Undercurrents is a cinematic composition for the developing string orchestra. The composition is based on the opening four-note motive. At times the music is reminiscent of orchestral writing from popular songs, and at times it conveys the most intense of movie scores.The opening motive becomes a supportive element at m. 17, when a lyrical melody appears in the first violin. The melody continues to soar until it drives into a rhythmic passage at m. 25. It becomes more intense at m. 33 with carefully placed accents. The music turns introspective at m. 44. Bring out the lyrical quality in the melody and the counterpoint in the inner lines. The four-note motive returns at m. 57 to restart the rhythmic energy. The music continues to build momentum until the tutti rest on beats 3 and 4 of m. 90. Then finish strong with one final statement of the four-note motive. As the title implies, there is a constant underpinning rhythmic drive in this piece from popular composer Sean O'Loughlin. The piece is based on a recurring four note motive that is the force that pushes the piece forward. This is contrasted by a lush middle section before the unrelenting motive comes back and brings the piece to a dramatic finish.

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