Concertino for Bassoon and Wind Ensemble

Concertino for Bassoon and Wind Ensemble can be heard as an argument between one person and a large group of people.  The solo speaker is trying to argue their case to the group, which has members who are stalwart and stubborn (the long, low sustained notes).  Still, the soloist’s musical material has some effect on other instruments, who react and elaborate the material in their own way.  Additionally, some of the ensemble’s material has an effect on the soloist.  The low brass and wind players, however, continue to express their stubbornness with the long sustained tones and violent interruptions.    In the middle “B” section, the soloist expresses a passionate recitative for their case, while the ensemble relaxes, like a slowly drifting cloud of sounds which shifts its shape and color with the breeze.  The low brass players, still outraged, eventually sit out in frustration, only to organize a “coup” for a return to the “A” section, which is even more violent than before and has more of an impact upon the soloist.  Eventually the whole group is swayed by the low brass, with a sustained buildup and final shout that cuts off the soloist, who has lost the argument.