Joe Duddell

4 (mere) Bagatelles

Duddell's short string quartet made up of four mere bagatelles is a treat for both players and audiences. First performed by the Psophos Quartet at the 2007 Presteigne Festival and recently transcribed for string orchestra, Duddell embraces the historical weight of the prestigious string quartet medium by alluding to a wealth of masterpieces by Mozart, Stravinsky, Debussy, Beethoven, Tippett and Webern. Despite these acknowledged references, the music is still distinctly Duddell's, with catchy melodic lines, tender harmonies and rhythmic energy. This is a fantastic new work for young quartets interested in new repertoire.