Edward Cowie's early experiences in the natural world, living in Suffolk and the Cotswolds, profoundly shaped his lifelong focus on nature as inspiration for both music and visual art.
Composer Biography
Edward Cowie held the unique distinction of being the first artist in residence with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, alongside being the BBC Singers' first composer in association.
Performer Biography
The Kreutzer Quartet, the performers on this album, has a reputation for being one of Europe's most dynamic and innovative string quartets, often premiering works by contemporary composers.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Edward Cowie's music is intended to stimulate more than just the sense of hearing, influenced by his study of the writings of Klee and Kandinsky.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Edward Cowie, the composer, begins his music-making process by drawing and notating in situ, functioning as a musical equivalent of a plein air visual artist.
Compositional Technique
The String Quartet No.5, titled 'Birdsong Bagatelles', does not use direct transcriptions of birdsong but rather focuses on the visual displays and behaviors of birds.
