commissioned, premiered and recorded by the Zephyria Wind Quintet

Bulgar is a common Klezmer music and dance form, most commonly in 2/4 or 3/8 time. Bulgar for wind quintet explores and stretches the time signatures, style, and color, similar to klezmer dances such as freilachs.

Starting with a “Doina,” this intro, often done with all klezmer dances, showcases the musicians' virtuosity, giving klezmers the opportunity to showcase their musicianship and expertise. Most often, the clarinetist is the main melodic voice of a klezmer, often interpreting sobbing, laughing, and cackling.

Bulgar for wind quintet has a main motif throughout the piece, which can be heard in all sections. With klezmer music being an excitingly respective genre, maintaining a motif throughout this composition is integral to its style. Additionally, klezmer music stays within certain modes. Given that the piece is most often in this altered Dorian mode, called Misheberakh, this mode allows for colorful melodies and easy changes between sections, keeping the music moving forward.

• Flute

• Oboe

• Clarinet

• Horn in F

• Bassoon