Sound vibrations are created by splitting the air stream on the edge of the hole. 
The beauty of a woodwind quintet is that each instrument offers a very different resonance, as each instrument’s design employs different physics for sound production. “This allows for a diverse set of colors unusual for such a small ensemble,” said Executive Director Henry Flurry. Tickets are available at AZPhil.org or the YCPAC box office.
The Woodwinds
The flute is a metal, tubular instrument with a hole over which air is directed. Sound vibrations are created by splitting the air stream on the edge of the hole. A clarinet is made of ebony wood shaped nearly cylindrical with a flared bell. It has a single reed (a flexible piece of wood) that vibrates against a rigid mouthpiece when blown.
Both the oboe and the bassoon use a double reed – two reeds that are strapped together and vibrate against each other. Both instruments are made of wood and are gently conical. “The French horn is roughly 17 feet of brass coiled into the familiar horn shape. Lip vibrations make its sound. When compared to a string or brass quintet, the diversity of design within a woodwind quintet is striking. This is one of my favorite chamber ensembles,” Flurry said.
The Repertoire
Principal clarinetist Scott Richardson organized this concert and is proud of the repertoire he selected. “This year’s Sonoran Winds concert is a synthesis of exquisite French chamber music and quintessential American popular music, with a touch of Latin flavor.” Six composers, some familiar and some not, are represented on the concert: Henry Mancini, Jean Francaix, Zequinha de Abreu, Maurice Ravel, Georges Auric and George Gershwin. Rich, melodic and lively works were chosen to offer a variety of colors and harmonies, with lyricism and virtuosity.
Unfortunately, since planning this concert, Richardson learned that an upcoming surgery will prevent his participation. AZ Phil’s second clarinetist, Mary Jackson, will be taking his place. Jackson has developed a local following through AZ Phil chamber concerts she has organized for the Highlands Center.
Joining Jackson on stage are principal flutist Jeannette Moore, principal oboist Laura Arganbright, guest bassoonist Chip King and principal French hornist Karen Teplik.
“I had a good chuckle when a fan pointed out that the traditional fifth-anniversary gift is of wood,” said Flurry, “and thus a woodwind quintet is highly appropriate for Arizona Philharmonic’s fifth season.” QCBN
By Cynthia Jones
About Arizona Philharmonic
Arizona Philharmonic (AZ Phil) is celebrating its fifth season in Prescott in 2022-2023 as Prescott’s regional professional orchestra, presenting large and small concerts that engage and inspire listeners. Based in Prescott, AZ Phil draws musicians from across Arizona and is committed to offering transformative music, while nurturing community participation and supporting the needs and growth of the Prescott area performing arts scene. Recognized in 2021 by the Prescott Chamber of Commerce for Excellence in Arts and Culture, Arizona Philharmonic is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Ticket information, sponsorship and volunteer opportunities can be found at AZPhil.org or on Facebook.
Cynthia Jones is the marketing manager for Arizona Philharmonic.
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