
2000 / Chamber Music
DURATION
12 minutesINSTRUMENTATION
cello, piano
- Seriously Sweet (midi demo) 11:44
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
PERFORMANCES
World Premiere
March 3, 2002
Alan Stellings (cello)
Frank Horvat (piano)
Women’s Art Association
Toronto, Canada
May 13, 2005
Alan Stellings (cello)
Frank Horvat (piano)
Women’s Art Association
Toronto, Canada
September 24, 2009
Alan Stellings (cello)
Frank Horvat (piano)
Canadian Opera Company Joey and Toby Tanenbaum Opera Centre
Toronto, Canada
November 12, 2023
Alyssa Wright (cello)
Sandra Ruttan (piano)
Collier Street United Church
Barrie, Canada