impossible inventions ​(2024) for string quartet (14') 
impossible inventions for string quartet (2024) 
i. faster – than – light – machine
ii. quantum – clockwork
iii. anti – gravity – machine
iv. cyborg – falling – in – love

impossible inventions (2024) makes the string quartet defy the laws of physics. Structured in four interlocking movements without pause, this piece takes its inspiration from hypothetical technologies envisioned in science fiction, reimagining the quartet as a series of fantastical machines. The first movement, the most substantial of the four, imagines a spacecraft hurtling at an extraordinary speed. The second and third movements are shorter interludes which conjures churning clockwork with pizzicati and the weightlessness of space with shimmering natural harmonics. The final movement transforms the viola in a robot falling in love, accompanied by a lyrical, gentle dance. The “inventions” of the title have a double meaning, referring to both the wondrous sci-fi machines and to the piece’s swirling contrapuntal writing reminiscent of Bach.

impossible inventions was commissioned by the Barlow Endowment Award, and was made possible thanks to a generous residency at Avaloch Farm Music Institute in August 2024. It is dedicated with gratitude and warmth to my friends Angela, Justin, Ben, and Russell of Balourdet Quartet – an extraordinary ensemble that defies the laws of physics.  ​
with Balourdet Quartet at a preview and workshop of impossible inventions at Avaloch Farm Music Institute.

"Paul Novak also seems to have nothing more to learn about writing for string quartet. The title of his “Impossible Inventions” suggests how difficult it is to perform, and yet, it is of the three contemporary works we heard the one that most clearly tied to the tradition of Haydn and Beethoven in its maintenance of a steady pulse, skillful transitions between sections and careful deployment of musical material among the four voices."
-Spokesman Review
recording forthcoming!
​selected performances
         Mar. 2025 — Balourdet Quartet, Fortas Chamber Music Series, Kennedy Center, Washington, DC
​         Nov. 2024 — Balourdet Quartet, Noe Music, San Francisco, CA