The Dutch composer Jacob ter Veldhuis (1951) has repeatedly turned in word and writing against excessive conceptualism, intellectualism and so on in modern music. He says of himself: "I compose with my ears, which - remarkably enough - is quite exceptional these days." The resounding result of his views can be heard on this CD with three string quartets of his hand. The "Quartet No. 1 'Versailles'"
… from 1990 consists of four parts. Each of the four parts focuses on a specific element from the gardens around this famous palace. The "Quartet No. 2 'Postnuclear Winter Scenario'" dates from 1991, a musical representation of the composer's reaction to the possible threat and effect of a nuclear conflict. The last work, "Quartet No. 3" that ultimately provide the solution - the way out - of tensions. Ter Veldhuis' music can best be compared to that of Gorecki, because of the often occurring brutal, powerful repeating figures and the lyrical passages that sometimes seem almost Eastern European. The Dutch Quartet plays all works with great dedication and conviction. (JvG) _ that ultimately provide the solution - the way out - of tensions. Ter Veldhuis' music can best be compared to that of Gorecki, because of the often occurring brutal, powerful repeating figures and the lyrical passages that sometimes seem almost Eastern European. The Dutch Quartet plays all works with great dedication and conviction. (JvG) _more
