for double reed consort and percussion: 2 oboes, 1 English horn, 2 bassoons, 1 percussionist
Duration: 14 minutes
In 2012, the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra (ASO) Board of Directors gave a
substantial monetary gift to the ASO musicians in appreciation of their hard work
and understanding during a period of financial difficulties. The musicians used the
gift to commission a new orchestral work composed by Christopher Theofanidis and dedicated it to the ASO Board. “The “Wind and Petit Jean” was premiered in May 2013 during the last ASO performances in Robinson Center Music Hall prior to the start of its recent renovation. Music Director Philip Mann conducted.
During a conversation with several ASO musicians related to the commission, Chris was asked if there was any music he’d always wanted to compose but had not yet written. He stated that he had always wanted to write a double reed consort. That comment planted the seed for “Airs and Dances”.
The oboe section of the ASO (Leanna Renfro, Lorraine Duso Kitts and Beth Wheeler) also perform together as the DDG Trio. The trio met with Chris and discussed the commission of a piece for 5 double reeds (2 oboes, English horn and 2 bassoons) plus percussion.
In January 2016, Chris completed Airs and Dances. He comments, “It is a festive
Number- The piece is in 6 short movements patterned on a Renaissance/Baroque
Suite. The theme for the 5th movement is based on a Medieval tune from the 13 th
century Spanish codex, the Cantigas de Santa Maria. I hope this piece will bring you some joy – it certainly has for me!
—Beth Wheeler
Biography