toelichting   biografie   notes • biography • Toek Numan (1971) Stringtones, for Stringquartet, 2004 - Commissioned by the Fonds van de Scheppende Toonkunst = The Dutch Fund of the Creation of Dutch music-. Stringtones for Stringquartet was created in collaboration with digital illustrator Walter van Lotringen, with guidance from multi-media specialist Tineke Posthumus. Our intention was to produce an accessible and compelling multi-media experience, characterised by a close attention to detail within a clear formal structure. On the surface, the music and images have a minimalist quality that belies the subtlety within. After a gentle and literally monotonous start, a flurry of activity, both in pitch and rhythm, marks a fundamental change in character; from introvert to extrovert. At this point, the music shifts from relative stasis to an urgent and fluctuating rhythmic pulse, perfectly mirrored by the accompanying visuals. Text: Toek Numan Toek Numan - biography Born in 1971 in Schagen, The Netherlands, Numan studied composition with Geert van Keulen at the Sweelinck Conservatory in Amsterdam between 1990 and 1996, and musicology at Utrecht University until 1997. In addition to his work as a composer, Numan is also an accomplished clarinettist, saxophonist and pianist. His works include film scores and music for dance and theatre productions. Recent commissions include the Asko Ensemble, Combustion Chamber, Ensemble Tonk, Het Amsterdams Kwintet, Orkest de Volharding, Renee Eckhardt and Tomoko Mukaiyama.