Prevailing Winds

Description

Mistral – a strong, cold, northwesterly wind that blows from southern France into the Gulf of Lion in the northern Mediterranean. This is an up-tempo number played with a swing.  The instruments complement each other playing in thirds and fourths and at times in contrary motion.  This piece may be quite a challenge!
Leveche – a westerly or south-westerly wind which predominates in northern Corsica all year round. A slow night-time piece with a jazzy element.
Helm – a named wind in Cumbria, England; a strong north-easterly wind which blows down the south-west slope of the Cross Fell escarpment. This piece has a calming effect; play slowly to take in the warmth of the harmonic changes.
Tramontane – a classical name for a northern wind. A modern quartet with interesting rhythms and harmony.  Not too difficult.   Sirocco – a Mediterranean wind that comes from the Sahara and can reach hurricane speeds in North Africa and Southern Europe, especially during the summer season. A modern piece with lots of interweaving parts, in a contemporary style played at a quick pace.