Three Miniatures for String Quartet by Lauren Lofton is a set of works meant to act as afterthoughts to each movement of Lofton's Symphony No. 3. Each movement involves a different programmatic theme involving an individuals life.

Movement 1, Toddling, focuses on the age between just being born, and finally being able to explore the world freely. For now, the child is just now understanding how things work and how to move about the place.

This movement uses a basic Ternary Form and begins with the toddler swinging and swaying about, trying to explore the area. Things seem to go well for it until all of a sudden, it takes a little fall.

The B section, now in B Minor, represents the child in an upset mood, due to falling over. Of course, nothing can keep a toddler down for too long, and of course it goes back to business as usual.

Now slightly distrusting of its own legs, the child continues to explore its surroundings, almost as if nothing happened. The energy continues its upwards track until finally it's time for "Upsies" and Naptime.

#composers #chambermusic #stringquartet #violin #viola #cello