Composer

:

Henry Cowell

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Wind Quintet

Compose Date

:

1933

Publication Date

:

1949

First Performance

:

Feb 21, 1948

Average_duration

:

4:45

Henry Cowell's 'Suite for Woodwind Quintet, HC 491b' is a four-movement piece composed in 1952. The premiere of the piece was on May 6, 1953, at the New School for Social Research in New York City. The movements of the suite are marked as follows: I. Allegro, II. Andante, III. Scherzo, and IV. Allegro. The first movement, Allegro, is characterized by its lively and energetic tempo. The woodwind quintet is used to create a playful and upbeat atmosphere, with each instrument taking turns to showcase their unique sound. The second movement, Andante, is a slower and more contemplative piece. The woodwind quintet is used to create a more introspective and melancholic mood, with the instruments blending together to create a hauntingly beautiful sound. The third movement, Scherzo, is a fast-paced and playful piece. The woodwind quintet is used to create a sense of whimsy and joy, with the instruments bouncing off each other in a lively and energetic way. The final movement, Allegro, is a return to the energetic and lively mood of the first movement. The woodwind quintet is used to create a sense of excitement and anticipation, with the instruments building up to a thrilling climax. Overall, Henry Cowell's 'Suite for Woodwind Quintet, HC 491b' is a masterful piece of music that showcases the unique sound and capabilities of the woodwind quintet. The four movements of the suite are each distinct in their mood and tempo, creating a varied and engaging listening experience.

More....