American Cryptids - Fall 2025 Halloween Submission

Here is my submission. The whole string quintet is 5 movements, but I've just given the first 3 to fit the time slot. It's a link to the Google Drive folder with the WAV files and score. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1MD4VU4YyL0m1n5gULbGStdbZU396P_oN?usp=sharing

I hope I put this in the right place- I'm quite obtuse when it comes to this website. 

 Entry: American Cryptids 

Average score: 9.5 (very good) 

Review: 

Each movement captures the character of Cryptiad! 

Execution: the competition was to write a 3-7 minute piece with a sweet spot of 5. This a multimovement work. However, it is scored solo strings. And it is quintet.  The total running went over.   I think it was close to 8 minutes.  8

Score/Playability: There were some minor details. But...maybe, submit each movement seperately. 9.5.

Originality:  Definitely original 10

Hi @Micah!

Personally I don't think this piece fits into the Halloween Competition at all with the mood the pieces create, but I have to say each of the three movements you submit has mature writing and effective technique used, and I love all 3 of them! All three features very good use of techniques for strings: Sul Ponticello/Tasto, Harmonics, col legno. You love to use contrast of pizz. vs arco plus p vs f together and it's effective! 

For the 1st piece Mothman I like the opening texture since it kind of reminds myself of the beginning of my very own String Sextet lol! I like the 5/4 dance as well, though I would love to see more varieties in the texture! The contrast here is well done nonetheless. 

I love the 2nd piece The Letiche, it's a nice bluesy C# minor dance in my favourite key! The glissando in b.33 for sure adds the sad but mesmerising mood. 

For the 3rd piece I really love the texture you have in b.35 with a high harmonics, pizz. and a rhythmic arco. It kind of reminds me of Bartok String Quartet texture. 

On 10/29/2025 at 5:31 AM, Kvothe said:

Execution: the competition was to write a 3-7 minute piece with a sweet spot of 5. This a multimovement work. However, it is scored solo strings. And it is quartet.  

You math is wrong again I think lol!! The three pieces adds up with 2:50+2:38+2:31=7:59 lol!! And it's a Quintet, not Quartet!

Thx for joining and sharing your music!

Henry