Northward Breeze

Northward Breeze is a second piece for wind quintet, and it creates a peaceful atmosphere. The opening clarinet theme has a slightly swung rhythm, which is developed as the piece progresses. A thickness of texture is achieved by each instrument having unique rhythms that are weaved together. The second section has a minor tonality, and the horn plays a simple, harmony driven melody. The bassoon is silent for part of this section, giving the music sparse quality.

The entire form so far is then repeated with alternative orchestration. Following this is a contrasting minor key section, in which the higher ranges of the instruments are used. In particular, the flute and oboe soar loudly over the rhythmic accompaniment of the clarinet, horn, and bassoon. An additional short and playful passage links back to a recapitulation of the opening clarinet phrase. The final chords use the lowest register of the clarinet for utmost sonority.

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