String quartets by South African composers : a comprehensive catalogue and annotated discussion of works composed between 1940 and 2016

Abstract

The projected outcome of this mixed methods research document is the compilation of a catalogue of South African string quartets, composed between 1940 and 2016. The main motivation for the choice of topic is the author’s aspiration to create a document containing basic information, as well as performance notes, where possible, regarding as many quartets, composed within this time frame, as could be found. Every effort has been made to create a document that is as comprehensive as possible, containing specific information regarding the works discussed. Works by more than 75 composers are listed in alphabetical order according to the composer’s surname. Each composer’s works are listed chronologically according to date of composition. Although this document lists more than 180 works for string quartet, as well as a few significant works for string quartet with one or two other voices, this document should not be regarded as fully comprehensive. Each catalogue inscription consists of the name, birth year and birth place of the composer; country of residence, if not in South Africa; publishing details of the composer, where applicable; contact details of the composer; title of work and year of composition; dedicatee and commission, where applicable; approximate duration; titles of movements; details of first performance; details of recordings; notes (annotations). The catalogue is preceded by a succinct historic overview of the development of the string quartet as a medium, as well as a timeline of composers of string quartets in South Africa. A short chapter explaining the annotation process is included. The research document concludes with suggestions for further investigation.