Breeze is a shortened version of my composition Wind, specially arranged for ARS members. This piece is written for quintet or sextet of recorders (Basses and Great Bass). As the name suggests, this work creates the sound of wind. To do this, it uses a few very simple techniques: 7th chords tied to a pedal tone, flowing in an ascending or descending chromatic scale, inserted into a frenetic rhythm of triplets. The musical mystery created engulfs the players in a delightful torrent of air!
-- Philippe Goudour
This Members’ Library composition is made possible by a generous donation from Wendy Powers, PhD, adjunct assistant professor at the Aaron Copland School of Music, Queens College of the City University of New York, and ARS board member. Wendy sponsored the composition because the recorder has been central throughout her adult life, both in her own playing and that of her students in private lessons and at workshops. She wishes to continue making the recorder a rewarding part of many more people’s lives.
This piece is addicting once you master the triple-tonguing. Chromatic lines undulate gently above a syncopated beat in this frantic scene with hypnotic imagery. The low sound of an all-basses ensemble is particularly attractive. A recording of a live performance by the composer is available on YouTube. Also be sure to check out the longer original, Wind.
-- Glen Shannon
Additional Performance Notes are included with the score download. The composer indicates that Parts 5 and 6 are optional.