Musical works

A staple of the wind quintet repertoire, Jean-Michel Damase’s Dix-sept Variations (1928–2013) unfolds as a series of miniature vignettes, each highlighting the technical possibilities and tonal colors of the five instruments.

Though composed in 1951, the work remains firmly rooted in the tradition of early 20th-century French music, characterized by its charm, elegance, and a touch of playful whimsy. Through these seventeen brief yet vivid variations, Damase crafts a kaleidoscopic showcase of wit and finesse, making the piece as delightful for performers as it is for audiences.