Additionally, with seven different movements in this one composition, this 'song' had the time and the build-up to really work through some climaxes. I believe that the sixth movement of this piece, Nocturne 2, actually did resemble the feel of the night. The types of strings that I typically appreciate are certainly indicative of night time, with their dark, spooky feeling. Although Dutilleux's Nocturne 2 was not quite as scary sounding as some of the modern day compositions I like, it certainly sounded good and came the closet to the type of music that I usually listen to.
Oddly enough, while Ainsi la' nuit was the piece that had elements in it that moved me the most, it also contained movements that helped to alienate me from the music -- and from this type of music -- the most as well. I found both of the litanies in this composition to be boring. They served their place, of course, by creating the lull that the ensuing Constellations (the fifth movement) and Nocturne 2 (the sixth movement) were able to capitalize on with their vibrancy and energy. But those liturgies were really conservative, to the point in which they began to sound like background music on the elevator. I understand that different types of music has a different time and place in which it is appropriate, but those...
The composition started out strong (and with another nocturne) and certainly ended with a flourish. Yet the middle was really boring and tedious to endure.
Overall, I had an enjoyable time at this performance of the Johannes String Quartet. I am not certain that I would like to sit through another one, but it certainly was a good experience for me. The highest compliment I think I can pay this type of music is that certain of the movements sounded like they would go good as music in films. Some of the more active, upbeat passages sounded appropriate for intense, psychological thrillers. Not the type of pulsing, throbbing music used to score car chase and bar fight scens in contemporary action flicks -- I believe some of this music could heighten the emotion in silent parts in a movement where someone is being followed and not aware of it, or stalked in public.
Finally, it was good to hear live music and live strings. Most of the aforementioned types of strings that I listen to are synthesized. There is definitely a vibrancy and warmth that comes across in music when it is played live. In that respect, I am quite pleased to have experienced the strings of the Johannes…
