I have always been fascinated by the oceans: their boundlessness, and promise of exotic lands beyond the horizon; their forbidding depths, and secrets hiding in the darkness; and their waves, mesmerizing in tranquility or threatening in fury. As an oceanographer, I am blessed to have been able to make a career out of studying the oceans. From a scientific perspective, each ocean is unique, characterized by their geometry, their currents, and the way they are composed of different ‘brands’ of sea water; some oceans are even partially covered by ice. From an artistic perspective, I imagine that each ocean has an intrinsic character; its own spirit. I tried to capture these moods as I envision them in this composition.
String Quartet #4, The Oceans, starts with the Arctic Ocean in its wintery ice-covered state, languid and calm, fragile maybe, overlain by ice and a cold, glassy atmosphere. The North Atlantic Ocean, in contrast, is a spirited ocean, tempestuous at times; S.O.S. signals remind us of the sacrifices it has demanded from those brave enough to venture out on it. The South Atlantic Ocean is graced with relentless joy and energy, while Latin vibes add to its festive character. The Southern Ocean is the stormiest of them all, battering everyone who dares to sail it; a yearning melody, maybe a sailor’s song, is absorbed by the tumultuous waves. The Indian Ocean is a sea of exoticism and tranquility, and is connected to the expansive South Pacific Ocean. The North Pacific Ocean is ebullient and full of energy, and takes us back to the calmness of the Arctic Ocean.
- Recording by the Cadalia Quartet on ReverbNation.
- Sheet music through Sheet Music Plus or Sheet Music Direct.
Wilbert Weijer 