Wind Octet (1977)
(Octet for Winds)

Apart from a long general pause near the end which serves to articulate the return of the opening material, this work plays continuously, falling into two main sections, both of which are concerned with chorus and refrain structures. The first section gradually focuses on the middle register of the whole ensemble from the initial extremes of E-flat clarinet and low bassoon, a design which is emphasised by the slightly unusual layout of the players. As this occurs the music of the refrain and chorus merge and then disintegrate into single staccato notes. The second section suddenly erupts from these notes, alternating violent music for the whole ensemble with quieter passages featuring the cor anglais. In doing this the second section moves towards a return of the opening. The graphic works of Max Escher, particularly Drawing hands, were a major source of inspiration for this cyclic design.

This work was commissioned by the Western Wind Band and premiered by them conducted by Alan Hacker on 9 July 1977 at Abbey Hall, St Andrew’s Church, Plymouth.

Philip Grange