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Richard Blackford: Variations on a Ukrainian Folk Song for string quartet [Printed Music]
£39.99
In stock
Catalogue Number
NMP1250
For String Quartet
20-page A4 saddle-stitched Score & 4 x A4 saddle-stitched Parts
Duration: c.9 mins
ISMN No: 9790708219002
Written in 2024 as a tribute to the fortitude and courage of the Ukrainian people, the seven variations are based on the charming folksong Oi zatsvela kalinoinka (“Viburnum Blossoms”). The first three variations gather momentum and virtuosity with tempo increases, before the more anguished fourth variation presents the theme in fragmented, dissonant form. An elegy follows, in which the theme, introduced by the viola, is combined with its inversion on the first violin. Variation VI sees the theme restored to a lighter, scherzo version. The final variation, marked Allegro molto, is the most extended of all the movements. Here the theme appears triumphant, in alternating 7/4 and 3/2 time, like pealing bells after a long period of darkness. Variations on a Ukrainian Folksong was commissioned by Peter Bevan and first performed by the Sacconi Quartet at the Wimbledon International Music Festival on November 3rd. 2025.
A PDF Version of this score is available upon request.
Manufacturer: Wyastone Estate Limited, Wyastone Leys, Monmouth, NP25 3SR
Email: sales@wyastone.co.uk