ASQ: Harry Sdraulig

This recording of String Quartet No 2 by Harry Sdraulig is the latest in ASQ’s Australian Anthology series.

“Though cast in a single movement of approximately thirteen minutes in duration, there are four distinct sections which follow a slow-fast-slow-fast structure. The first begins with gentle, glistening harmonics which, through melodic development, eventually blossom into an extended cello solo accompanied by an undercurrent of rustling rhythmic figurations. The second section constitutes a fast, pulsating scherzo which demands considerable agility and virtuosity from the players. By contrast, the third section – introduced through a viola solo – is unashamedly melodic, interweaving countermelodic phrases with rich harmonies before ending in an oasis of stillness and calm. This gives way to a brief, energetic finale which reprises much of the work’s prior material to make for a dramatic and climactic conclusion.” – H Sdraulig 2024