Memento

Memento
is a gorgeous piece for
the unlikely combination of viola and double bass. It is a late work
that

Is
seemingly composed around memories of time past, though we are not
told that story. However it clearly depicts the composer’s love of
his native folk music and engages the two instruments in a beautiful
yet haunting dialogue. The rich velvety tones of the viola, paired
with the intensity of the sublime upper register of the double bass
alternate between reflective anticipatory passages subtly infused
with hints of serialism and a central moment of such intense ferocity
that for a fleeting moment brings to mind the string quartet writings
of Shostakovich. The work closes with a gentle, yet precise
repetitive three note progression creating a reflective and
meditative atmosphere leaving the audience on the edge of their seat.

Norah
O’Leary