Conversation Piece
for Violin and Violoncello
Instrumentation
Violin and Violoncello
Program Note
The term “conversation piece” refers to a genre of painting in England in the 18th century. The works were simple depictions of upper class people engaged in genteel conversation. Much in the art of conversation has changed since then, and I had the thought to in a way update the genre to be relevant in our modern times, through depicting my own personal observation and participation of four engaging conversations.
I. Buzzed
A slightly intoxicated, or “buzzed”, man is at a party schmoozing. He talks to several people, all for only a short while, and everything he says is a quip. Every once in a while he slurs and/or stumbles over his words. He is not fazed by this, and continues on schmoozing.
II. Chinwag
Two obviously good friends at a coffee shop are talking very quickly and excitedly (having a “chinwag”). Every once in a while they show something on their phone to the other, and they laugh.
III. Plea
Two people are quietly talking in a corner. One of them, who is doing most of the talking, looks concerned and uneasy, with their hands clasped tightly, staring intently at the other’s vacant face. They are desperate to resolve something. The other awkwardly looks straight ahead, wishing they were somewhere else.
IV. Squabble
Two friends are angrily arguing over something semantic and irrelevant to their daily lives. They yell, shout, and are overly-aggressive with these comically pointless opinions. They are always smiling.
Premiere
2016 Cassidy Goldblatt, Violin and Joshua DeVries, Violoncello