Dance of Serendipity for Violin, Viola, Cello (ft. members of Friction Quartet)

Dance of Serendipity by Michael Chang for violin, viola, and cello. 1st Place - 2026 Young Composers Competition (Webster University) Performed by members of the Friction Quartet: Kevin Rogers, violin Mitso Floor, viola Doug Machiz, cello San Francisco Conservatory of Music Pre-College Composition Recital World Premiere April 5, 2025 Hume Concert Hall, San Francisco, CA Program Notes: Serendipity – an unexpected yet fortunate discovery, of finding something valuable, not sought after. In Dance of Serendipity, a motif in 5/8 time in the key of A minor introduces the piece with a quirky lightness, as two strangers have a chance encounter. Somehow, they are drawn to each other, and strangely, yet naturally, begin to dance. Next, a short transition modulates the piece to the key of E minor and a time signature of 7/8, symbolizing the realization that they are in a public setting, somewhat abashed, yet their hearts encourage them to continue. This is later followed by a short transition made up of short, separated phrases, as the couple lightly step their way around brief obstacles and carry on. The introduction of different time signatures along with an emotional melody traded from the violin to the viola, however, increases tension, as the two individuals find themselves being pulled apart by outside forces. The main theme is reintroduced, as the couple come together for one final dance, ending in a lingering cello note, as they slowly part, possibly forever. Copyright © 2025 Michael M. Chang. All Rights Reserved.