Jean-François Michel

Eastwind

For 'Eastwind', Jean-François Michel was cleverly inspired by the rich Balkan or Eastern European musical folklore, which was introduced by the gypsies in countless variations wherever they settled. This music floats freely between minor and major modes, between devilishly fast dances and mournful cantilenas, irresistibly bewitching sad or happy souls. The premiere was on July 21, 2012 at the opening of the 61st Ljubljana Festival in Slovenia. It was performed by the Slokar Academy Ensemble (4 trumpets and 4 trombones) and the soloists Franc Kosem, trumpet and Branimir Slokar, trombone. The solo parts were written for C-trumpet and trombone, and the composer subsequently added different variations so that the soloists could perform with three different accompaniments: 1) C trumpet and trombone (bass clef) for the version with brass ensemble accompaniment 4 trumpets and 4 trombones (ENS215d); 2) Bb cornet or trumpet and euphonium in treble or bass clef and trombone in treble clef for the version with brass band accompaniment (ENS215b/c); 3) All soloist parts are included with the version with piano accompaniment for the soloists' choice (BIM ENS215a).