My first String Quartet, written way back in the 90s, is in two movements, fast - slow. The entire piece is built off the opening three note cell C - D - C#. The first movement alternates between a fast paced fugal section which repeats three times, and slower interludes where each player has a chance to show off.

Though the piece has the key of D Minor, and there is a strong pull toward the note D, it is not really tonal except in patches here and there.

I'm rather fond of the fugal sections, because I manage to get the fugue subject to enter in inversion and in reverse. Also, the fugue subject, C - D - C# - A - G - F - F# - Bb - A - D, includes the opening motif in both normal and inversion.

Here's hoping you all enjoy it!

Dominus tecum