Kreutzer Quartet - Edward Cowie: The Kreutzer Effect (2024)

Considered one of the most influential composers inspired by the natural world, Edward Cowie’s collaboration with the exceptional Kreutzer String Quartet spans nearly a decade. This partnership has resulted in the recording of Cowie’s first six quartets, as well as remarkable solo and duo works showcasing the quartet’s unparalleled skill. Now, Cowie presents his seventh string quartet, “Western Australia,” specially crafted for the Kreutzer Quartet, accompanied by four solo portrait pieces dedicated to each member. From the ethereal heights of Clifton Harrison’s viola to the intricate melodies inspired by the habits of owls for Neil Heyde’s cello, Cowie’s compositions reflect a profound reverence for both the human animal and the natural world.

Delving into the heart of Australia’s rugged landscape, Cowie’s quartet captures the awe-inspiring vastness and ancient beauty of Western Australia. Each movement paints a vivid picture of the region’s diverse landscapes, from the expansive horizons of the first movement to the primal origins depicted in the second, culminating in the mysterious allure of the Pinnacles in the final movement. Through his music, Cowie masterfully evokes the ever-changing landscapes and intricate ecosystems of Western Australia, inviting listeners on a transformative journey through time and space.

Additionally, the recording features four solo portraits, each a testament to the unique talents and personalities of the Kreutzer Quartet members. From Neil Heyde’s emotive exploration of owls to Mihailo Trandafilovski’s evocative interpretation of evolution, Cowie’s compositions showcase the quartet’s versatility and virtuosity. With each note, Cowie pays homage to his collaborators, celebrating their friendship and artistic prowess while pushing the boundaries of contemporary chamber music. Experience the extraordinary fusion of nature and music in Cowie’s latest masterpiece, a testament to the enduring power of creative collaboration and the boundless wonders of the natural world.

The Kreutzer Quartet has established itself as one of the most sought after string quartets in the UK. They appear regularly at the major London venues and have made many live and studio recordings for the BBC, and major networks all over Europe. They have taken their extremely eclectic programmes to Italy, Germany, France, Holland, Serbia, Montenegro, Sardinia, the US, Spain, Cyprus, Poland, and Lithuania. Recent critical and publicly acclaimed performances have been at the Warsaw Autumn Festival, de Doelen, Rotterdam, Quartet 2000, Manchester International, and the Vilnius Philharmonic Festival.

Tracklist
01. Cowie- Glaukopis- I. Athene noctua (Little Owl)
02. Cowie- Glaukopis- II. Strix aluco (Tawny Owl)
03. Cowie- Glaukopis- III. Asio flameus (Short-eared Owl)
04. Cowie- Glaukopis- IV. Asio otus (Long-eared Owl)
05. Cowie- Glaukopis- V. Tyto alba (Barn Owl)
06. Cowie- Whatever happened to Icarus-
07. Cowie- One Second Fiddle
08. Cowie- Menurida Variants
09. Cowie- String Quartet No. 7 (-Western Australia-)- I. The Road of Flowers
10. Cowie- String Quartet No. 7 (-Western Australia-)- II. Hamelin Pool - Shark Bay
11. Cowie- String Quartet No. 7 (-Western Australia-)- III. The Pinnacles- Nambung National Park