The Four Elements
Wind is part of a cycle of four pieces for solo alto saxophone titled The Four Elements that
was composed with the intention of involving the performer to a greater extent in the
creative process. Although each piece is a complete work in itself that the performer can
choose to play as a standalone saxophone solo, the Elements can be combined to create a
suite. When playing more than one of the Elements, the performer can choose the quantity
and order of the pieces to create a larger work that conveys a story. I recommend that the
performer relate the story he or she has imagined either orally or in program notes in
order to engage the audience in the creative process as well. Although each Element
expresses different moods, it is up to the performer to decide how to interpret them and
create his or her own story. For example, the order Fire-Earth-Water-Wind could evoke the
story of a sacrificial rite and its gloomy aftermath, followed by a torrential downpour and
the clearing of the skies where birds are calling to each other.
-Victor Herbiet