As the title implies, the reed quartet is an ensemble that uses four reed instruments. Oboe and bassoon are double-reed instruments, and clarinet and saxophone are single-reed instruments. Although not standard instrumentation, it has excellent flexibility and expressiveness. "The Nutcracker" is a ballet written in 1892 by Russia's leading composer Tchaikovsky. Like Handel's "Messiah" and Beethoven's "Ninth," the Nutcracker has become a regular Christmas repertoire frequently performed in Europe and the United States. "Nutcracker Suite" is composed of eight movements selected by Tchaikovsky himself prior to the premiere of the ballet. I arranged a small overture for the Chicago Reed Quartet.

The original was for orchestra of 2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 2 horns, triangle, violin, and viola. When playing in a quartet, it is important to exaggerate dynamic changes and imaginative sounds. Also, well-balanced volume between relatively quiet instruments and louder instruments (especially saxophone) is essential. Try to play difficult technical phrases with deference to the ensemble blend, not just your own sound.

(Masahito Sugihara)