Seriously Sweet

Programme Notes

Seriously Sweet is two pieces in one! The first half features a “hard-hitting,” rhythmically intense interplay between the cello and piano. The second half reveals a more ballad-like, gentler side with a slower tempo and delicate voicing.

Beyond simply contrasting tempos and rhythms, this work also explores my compositional interest in combining musical styles. It contains elements of pop, jazz, minimalism, and even schmaltzy Hollywood film music. I have always believed that the content of a musical composition does not have to be limited to any one specific style. As a musician, I’ve been exposed to many genres of music and have always been fascinated by how the fusion of different sounds and attitudes can make a composition unique unto itself.

Seriously Sweet is my way of addressing the question that most composers detest: “What kind of music do you write?”

– Frank Horvat