Guido Molinari, Sang d'or bleu, 1985, acrylic on canvas, 142 x 142 cm (collection of the Guido Molinari Foundation)

Morel, François : Quatuor no.1 (1952-54)

In 1952, I participated in a competition organised by the Laval University to underline its 100th anniversary of the signing of the Royal charter of the universities (1852-1952). I won the first prize in the chamber music category. One of the requirements was the use of Quebec folklore in the composition. Unlike the usual quote being used with an obsolete harmonization, I thought that the best way to incorporate folk melodies would be by the use of humour, even derision in a style close to Stravinski and Bartók. To add to this humour I quote the universally known nursery rhymes Three Blind Mice and Frère Jacques (Brother John), without a nod to biculturalism. The strings are sometimes used as percussions (col legno). The second movement is more lyrical with its intertwining lines and the third reminds the first with its great momentum. The quartet is of cyclic form with the first movement being an Allegro marked Rythmique, followed by an Adagio (Lent) and a closing Rondo (Vif)

François Morel

Access to score:

https://productionsdoz.com/product/303-quatuor-a-cordes-no-1

François Morel (1926-2018)

Emeritus professor of the Faculty of Music of the Laval University of Québec where he taught, from 1979 to 1997, composition, orchestration, analysis and ensemble conducting, François Morel is the author of an impressive catalogue of works for orchestra, wind ensembles and chamber music. He is founder and coproducer of the recordig company Musique à l’Université Laval.
François Morel is recipient of numerous honours and distinctions such as the Chevalier de l’Ordre national du Québec in 1994 and the Denise-Pelletier Prize in 1996. In 2003, Morel received the Serge-Garant Prize from the Émile-Nelligan Foundation as well as the Prix Hommage from the Quebec Music council during the 16th edition of the Opus prize Gala.