Volans: String Quartets

"Volans: String Quartets" is a captivating collection of works by South African-born Irish composer and pianist Kevin Volans, released in 1995 under the Collins Classics label. This album is a testament to Volans' unique compositional style, blending minimalism with influences from African music, creating a sound that is both intricate and accessible.

The album features four tracks, including three string quartets and a standalone movement for string quartet. The "Dancers On A Plane" String Quartet No.5 and the two movements of "The Ramanujan Notebooks" String Quartet No.4 showcase Volans' ability to weave complex mathematical concepts into his music, resulting in pieces that are as intellectually stimulating as they are aurally pleasing. The final track, "Movement For String Quartet," is a standalone piece that further demonstrates Volans' mastery of the string quartet form.

Performed by the esteemed Duke Quartet, the album's duration is a concise yet satisfying 62 minutes. Volans' work on this album is a must-listen for fans of minimalist music and those interested in the intersection of mathematics and music. The album's release in 1995 marked a significant contribution to the genre, and it continues to be celebrated for its innovative approach to composition.

Kevin Volans, born in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa in 1949, is a captivating composer and pianist who has made a significant mark on the world of minimalist music. His journey began with studies under the renowned Karlheinz Stockhausen and Mauricio Kagel in Cologne, Germany, before eventually settling in Ireland in the 1980s, where he now holds Irish citizenship. Volans' work is a unique blend of his South African roots and European influences, creating a sound that is both innovative and deeply resonant. His compositions, such as the Trio Concerto and the Symphony Daar kom die Alibama, showcase his ability to weave intricate layers of sound into compelling musical narratives. Beyond his solo work, Volans has also contributed to stage works like the incidental music for Pirandello's "Die Riesen vom Berge." With a career spanning decades, Kevin Volans continues to be a dynamic force in contemporary classical music, offering audiences a rich and immersive musical experience.

Volans: String Quartets

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