We came across the music of the Canadian composer Frank Horvat in 2018 when he invited the Vaughan String Quartet (of which we are members) to participate in the recording of a movement from his quartet The Thailand HRDS. We immediately felt a deep connection with Horvart’s music and, when choosing works for this album, asked him to compose a new piece for violin and viola. Two Hearts in Concert showcases these instruments in conversation, while telling a story of the partnership between couples who work together. 

When the Amorim-Rufino Duo approached me to compose a new piece for them, I was very delighted by the opportunity. Fabiola and Vladimir are not just music partners, but life partners. And since I also work full-time with my soul mate on creative pursuits, the opportunity to compose a piece around the idea of connectedness was very intriguing to me. Over the years, Lisa and I have had the most lively and passionate conversations, but these do not occur as frequently as the quiet interactions where we are aware and empathetic to each other’s feelings and thoughts without verbally conveying them in words. Instead, it’s transferred by an energy between us. Subtle movements and gestures. Very personal moments that happen between us.

Two Hearts in Concert conveys this non-verbal communication between two kindred spirits. The intermingling of the violin and viola captures this empathy and love between both parts. A love founded on a bond of caring and compassion.

​Commissioned by the Amorim-Rufino Duo with the financial support of the Edmonton Arts Council. (Frank Horvat)