Generations String Quartet is composer Frank Singer's first classical release. Generations was commissioned by Gannon University for Erie, Pennsylvania's 1995 BiCentennial Celebration. The work features the traditional 2 violins and cello, but exchanges the viola for jazz-style electric guitar.

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I hear the soft music in the background - something classical, like a string quartet.

The sound is pleasant.

At first, it reminds me of long ago, of a time when music was meant to be simple and calming. A theme of medieval times.

Then, it becomes more classical, like a fugue.

I move closer, tuning in as the violin plays a lush, romantic, impressionist theme.

Then, I am sure I hear guitar, as the fourth theme is stated, the kind of things orchestras play for the second piece. But it diverges, and suddenly the cello is - walking a bass line! And a 20th-century jazz guitar solo ensues.

On my second listen, I hear the four themes beginning the fifth movement, followed by their coming together as one theme, unity and diversity.

As I replay Generations, I hear the story unfolding, and the question remains:

How will our future Generations know us, but by our time, the deeds we do, and the seeds we sow?

Those who go before weave the threads of the present, and as we live the present we create the future.

The original composition is in five movements. The first movement, which features the second violin, is reminiscent of the music of medieval times. The second movement, which features the cello, is classical in structure. The third movement, which features the first violin, is romantic in tone. The fourth movement, which features the electric guitar, is in the 20th century style. Each movement borrows from and builds upon the other movements. The fifth and final movement weaves together movements one through four.

Generations String Quartet, 5 movements of unified yet diverse music, including a jazz-style electric guitar solo.

disk 1

Movement 1 - Violin 2 theme, Violin 1 counter-theme
Movement 2 - Cello theme, Electric Guitar counter-theme
Movement 3 - Violin 1 theme, Violin 2 counter-theme
Movement 4 - Electric Guitar theme, Cello counter-theme
Movement 5 - All themes stated, combined and developed
 

The composer gratefully acknowledges Dr. Cherie Haeger of Gannon University for all of her assistance. Thanks also to Gannon University, Melanie Kuebel and the Gannon University Historical Museum, Cycling Troll Recording, Laurie and Tom Hitt, Mike Ohm, Tony Stefanelli, Joe and Paula Dorris and family, Mary Connerty, and to the people of Erie, PA for their unending local support.

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