2025 | String quartet | Approximately 20 minutes

Echoes of Layers begins with the image of a forest seen from a distance. What initially appears simple and unified becomes increasingly intricate as we move closer. Across three movements, the quartet follows this change of perspective, from the broad landscape to the processes of growth and, finally, to the microscopic world.

The journey also has a personal dimension. Looking more closely at the natural world becomes a way of looking inward.

I. Horizon. Unfolding

From a distance, the forest appears as a single shape. As we approach, individual forms begin to emerge. What seemed simple from afar reveals an intricate structure of its own.

II. Growth. Time

This movement was inspired by F. Percy Smith’s 1910 film The Birth of a Flower, an early example of time-lapse filmmaking. Watching flowers bloom in accelerated time reveals processes normally too slow for us to perceive.

The movement explores growth, transformation and the fractal patterns found in nature. For me, these ideas also suggest the lifelong process of studying oneself, learning and becoming more aware.

III. Depths. Cells

Inspired by the sound of the South Indian drone instrument, the tanpura, the final movement approaches the microscopic scale. The journey that began with a view of the forest now turns completely inward, towards the smallest structures and the core of things.

Performers

Miina Laanesaar – violin I
Danae Taamal – violin II
Joosep Ahun – viola
Ruslan Petrov – cello

Recording credits

Mixing and mastering – Martin Tamm
Video – Adrian Rannut
Album artwork – Alesja Stavitskaja

Interviews & Press

Interviews & Radio

ERR Klassikaraadio – Muusikatuba: Madis Muul – Echoes of Layers
9 October 2025 · Radio interview with Ivo Heinloo

Meet the Artist – Madis Muul, Pianist & Composer
16 October 2025 · Artist interview discussing the quartet and his compositional work

Edasi – Madis Muul: Muusikas peab peegelduma helilooja tõeline olemus ja karakter
March 2025 · Interview with Anne Erm, including South Indian rhythmic influences on the quartet

Press & Coverage

MuusikaPlaneet – Madis Muul avaldas keelpillikvarteti nr 1
24 September 2025 · Release article

North West Connected – Madis Muul and Muul Ensemble Unveil String Quartet No. 1
October 2025 · English-language release feature