Woodwind Quintet #1

The modern woodwind quintet is a standard chamber ensemble valued for its versatility its variety and its tone color. The wind quintet sprang from the octet ensemble favored in the court of Joseph II in late 18th century Vienna: two oboes, two clarinets, two natural horns, and two bassoons. The addition of the flute was to come later. The woodwind quintet is a favored chamber ensemble of the 19th, 20th and the 21st century.

My first woodwind quintet was a work in progress that lasted the better part of seven years. I always wished to have at least one wind quintet underneath my belt if not just for bragging rights. This quintet is lively, lyrical and patient. Its completion marks the starting point in my journey of appreciation and love for the colorful timbres of the entire woodwind family. The wind quintet ensemble is certainly a favorite of mine and it seems to also be a favorite of many other composers throughout the common practice period as well as the 20th and 21st centuries.

This wind quintet #1 is in three movements: fast, slow and fast. Its entire length is just under fourteen minutes. The full score is formatted to A3 and the parts to A4.